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The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) is thrilled that Professor Katalin Karikó, Honorary Doctor of Science, has been awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine 2023. The groundbreaking discoveries concerning messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) made by Professors Katalin Karikó and Drew Weissman are among the most important of the 21^st century. The mRNA-based technology they developed and the vaccines based on it created the foundations for the effective, successful fight against the COVID-19 virus worldwide, making a major contribution to the containment of the pandemic. This has also opened the door for the prevention and treatment of other diseases in the future. Their Nobel Prize triumph is richly deserved. CUHK awarded Professor Karikó the degree of Doctor of Science, honoris causa, in August this year in recognition of her significant scientific discoveries and life-saving achievements.

CUHK Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Rocky S. Tuan said, “I sincerely congratulate Professor Karikó for this well-deserved recognition. When we met during her visit to CUHK in August to receive an honorary doctorate, she graciously discussed with me her dedication and commitment to the pursuit of excellence in science, which she considers to be the equivalent of the pursuit of happiness, and how she is able to transform stress into something that will urge her on. I was deeply inspired and moved.”

Video: Professor Katalin Karikó Honorary Degree Conferment Ceremony and Distinguished Lecture

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Press release: CUHK awards honorary doctorate of science to mRNA vaccine pioneer Professor Katalin Karikó