Many congratulations to Prof. Stefanie Kaiser (Goethe University Frankfurt) and Dr. Eva Kowalinski (EMBL Grenoble), who have been awarded the prestigious Prix Forcheurs Jean-Marie Lehn in recognition of their collaborative research on RNA-based cancer therapeutics.

First established in 2017 by the Franco-German University (FGU) and the French Embassy in Germany, the award celebrates outstanding binational partnerships in science. This year’s prize, presented on June 24, 2025, at the French Embassy in Berlin, honors Kaiser and Kowalinski for their project titled “Fighting Cancer by Targeting the Epitranscriptome.” Sanofi Germany and BASF France contributed the prize money, awarding €10,000 to each laureate. The research focuses on how chemical modifications of transfer RNA (tRNA)—a central component in protein synthesis—may offer novel therapeutic strategies for liver and breast cancer. These modifications are essential for maintaining tRNA stability and ensuring accurate decoding of genetic information. Disruptions in this process are associated with various diseases, including cancer. Together, the Kaiser and Kowalinski labs are working to decode the function of a specific class of enzymes responsible for tRNA modifications. By understanding how these enzymes operate and selectively recognize different tRNA molecules, the researchers aim to develop small molecules that precisely target them—opening new avenues for therapeutic intervention.Their collaborative effort exemplifies the power of international partnerships in advancing translational science.

Congratulations to both awardees on this outstanding recognition—we’re excited to see where this important work leads next!

🔗 Learn more about Prof. Kaiser’s research group
🔗 Read more about the award

Pictured (left to right): Dr. Eva Kowalinski and Prof. Dr. Stefanie Kaiser at the award ceremony.
Photo: French Embassy in Germany & Goethe University Frankfurt