A researcher working to find new ways to fight
antibiotic-resistant infections, and a distinguished
scientist whose work has helped deliver a treatment for an
aggressive blood cancer, have been recognised at Medicines
New Zealand’s 2026 Value of Medicines Awards. The Awards
will be presented to the winners at a parliamentary awards
ceremony tonight, which will be attended by scientists,
researchers, politicians and a wide range of health sector
stakeholders.
Dr Keely Oldham, a postdoctoral fellow
at the University of Waikato, has received the
Innovation Jump Start Award for research
exploring a new antimicrobial approach called phage therapy.
Her work aims to identify ways to disrupt essential
bacterial processes, opening potential new pathways for
treating infections that are becoming increasingly resistant
to existing medicines.
Professor Richard Furneaux, a
Distinguished Scientist at the Ferrier Research Institute Te
Kāuru at Victoria University of Wellington Te Herenga Waka,
has received the Award for Excellence in Innovative
Medicines Research. Professor Furneaux is being
recognised for a career that has taken New Zealand science
from the laboratory towards new medicines. His work in
carbohydrate chemistry and drug discovery has contributed to
medicines development internationally.
“Through
these awards, Medicines New Zealand is actively supporting
New Zealand’s science and health research. The awards
reflect the importance of a strong research and development
ecosystem in New Zealand, and we are proud to acknowledge
and support the New Zealanders who already are and who will
in the future contribute to that.” said Todd Krieble,
Chairman of Medicines New Zealand.
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The Innovation
Jumpstart Award will support Dr Oldham with both project
funding for the next stage of her research and career
support funding for professional development. The Award for
Excellence in Innovative Medicines Research recognises the
more than forty years of dedication Professor Furneaux has
made to biopharmaceutical research through his work in
carbohydrate chemistry, drug discovery and research
translation.
About Medicines New
Zealand:
Medicines New Zealand is the industry
association representing biopharmaceutical companies
operating in New Zealand. We advocate for the benefits of
modern medicines and vaccines as part of a high-quality
public health
system.
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