The AACR Academy has been created to recognize and honor distinguished scientists whose major scientific contributions have propelled significant innovation and progress against cancer. These Fellows have been selected through a rigorous peer review process that evaluates individuals on the basis of their stellar scientific achievements in cancer research. Harald zur Hausen discovered the connection between human papilloma virus infection and cervical cancer. Upon his discoveries a vaccine could be developed.
Harald zur Hausen said: “It is a great honor to be elected in this very first class of academy members of the AACR. I am looking forward to meet my new colleagues from all over the world."
“Our Board of Directors made the decision to establish the AACR Academy as a mechanism for recognizing scientists whose contributions to the cancer field have had an extraordinary impact. Membership in the Fellows of the AACR Academy will be the most prestigious honor bestowed by the American Association for Cancer Research," said Margaret Foti, chief executive officer of the AACR.
The inaugural class of Fellows of the AACR Academy will consist of 106 individuals, symbolizing the age of the organization upon establishment of the Academy. Future classes of Fellows shall consist of no more than 11 individuals, in honor of the 11 founding members of the American Association for Cancer Research. These Fellows will be elected by a vote of all the Fellows of the AACR Academy.