New award for Irish scientists in US

The winner of the first St Patrick's Day Science Medal has made major discoveries, including research into how low-dose aspirin can help reduce the risk of heart attack.

Prof Garret FitzGerald is professor of medicine and pharmacology at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia. He runs a large research group which has published highly influential studies.

Prof FitzGerald expressed his delight at receiving the award, describing himself as highly honoured. “I could not do what I do with out the support of my family, mostly my wife but also my children. This is a collective effort where unjustly one person gets recognised,” he said.

The medal celebrates the work of an Irish scientist or engineer living and working in the US. It is awarded by Science Foundation Ireland and was presented by Taoiseach Enda Kenny in Washington yesterday.

Prof FitzGerald was also the recipient of the RDS/ Irish Times Boyle Medal for Scientific Excellence in 2005.

His group explained how taking aspirin could reduce heart attack risk, but they also showed how a very popular painkiller used to control arthritic pain could increase the risk of heart attack in older patients. The blockbuster drug was subsequently taken off the market.

“This award celebrates the reality and the potential of the interaction between Ireland and the USA,” Prof FitzGerald said. Many Irish scientists were given a chance to study and train there and to participate in academic and commercial collaboration.