Pioneering Biochemist Svetlana Mojsov Honored with Prestigious Kimberly Prize for Groundbreaking GLP-1 Discovery

Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine is set to honor a true visionary in the field of biochemistry: Dr. Svetlana Mojsov. An influential biochemist at Rockefeller University, Dr. Mojsov has been named the deserving recipient of the 2026 Kimberly Prize in Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, an award that shines a spotlight on her groundbreaking discovery of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1).

Dr.

Mojsov's pioneering work laid the essential foundation for a revolution in metabolic medicine. Her discovery of GLP-1, a powerful hormone playing a pivotal role in regulating blood sugar, was nothing short of extraordinary. At a time when the scientific community was still piecing together the intricate mechanisms of insulin secretion and glucose homeostasis, Mojsov’s meticulous research unveiled GLP-1’s critical function.

This crucial insight has since transformed the landscape of treatments for chronic conditions affecting millions worldwide.

The impact of Dr. Mojsov’s findings cannot be overstated. Her identification of GLP-1 paved the way for the development of GLP-1 receptor agonists, a class of life-changing medications that includes household names like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Trulicity.

These drugs have become indispensable tools in managing type 2 diabetes, offering improved blood sugar control and significant cardiovascular benefits. Moreover, their remarkable efficacy in promoting weight loss has made them a cornerstone in the fight against obesity, fundamentally reshaping how these prevalent health challenges are addressed.

Despite the immense clinical significance of her discoveries, Dr.

Mojsov’s contributions were, for a period, remarkably overlooked in scientific literature and public discourse. This prestigious Kimberly Prize serves as a powerful testament to her unwavering dedication and profound impact, granting her the long-overdue recognition she so rightfully deserves. It highlights a critical chapter in scientific history where foundational discoveries, though initially unheralded, ultimately transform medicine.

Expressing her gratitude, Dr.

Mojsov remarked, “I am very thankful for this award and for the recognition of my contribution to the field of GLP-1 research. It is truly humbling to be acknowledged in this way, and I am hopeful that it will inspire future generations of scientists to pursue curiosity-driven research.”

The Kimberly Prize, established by the generous support of Elizabeth J.

Kimberly and family and administered by the Simpson Querrey Institute, is one of the most significant accolades in biochemistry and molecular genetics. It acknowledges outstanding achievements that have profoundly advanced our understanding of life sciences and human health. Elizabeth J. Kimberly herself emphasized the profound reach of Mojsov's work: “The global impact of Dr.

Mojsov’s discovery, which led to treatments for diabetes and obesity, is truly incredible. My hope for this award is to support scientists who work in the areas that can affect millions of people, and Dr. Mojsov’s work is certainly a prime example.”

Rex Chisholm, Ph.D., vice dean for scientific affairs and the Adam and Richard T.

Perlman Professor of Cell and Molecular Biology, also lauded Mojsov's contributions. “Dr. Mojsov’s identification of GLP-1 is a seminal discovery that has had a profound impact on human health,” Chisholm stated. “Her work represents the very best of basic science leading to transformative clinical applications, and we are thrilled to recognize her with the Kimberly Prize.”

Dr.

Mojsov will formally receive the Kimberly Prize on April 28, 2026, during a special ceremony at Northwestern University, where she will also deliver a distinguished lecture, sharing insights from her illustrious career and inspiring the next wave of scientific innovators. Her career trajectory, from her early work at Massachusetts General Hospital to her ongoing contributions at Rockefeller University, underscores a relentless pursuit of knowledge that has profoundly benefited humanity.