Newcastle University’s Professor Stewart Wins Blavatnik Award for Pioneering Microbiome Research in Infant Health

Newcastle University’s Professor Stewart Wins Blavatnik Award for Pioneering Microbiome Research in Infant Health

(IN BRIEF) Professor Christopher Stewart from Newcastle University has become the first from his institution to win the esteemed Blavatnik Award for Young Scientists in the Life Sciences category. Honored with £100,000 in unrestricted funds, he is recognized for his innovative work on microbiome-based therapies to reduce pre-natal infant mortality. His research, which includes discoveries about the role of human breast milk in promoting a healthy gut microbiome in premature infants and the development of novel premature gut organoid models, is influencing clinical practices worldwide. The award was presented at a high-profile gala at The Orangery at Kensington Palace, emphasizing the transformative impact of young scientists on pressing global issues such as infant mortality, sustainable practices, and climate change.

(PRESS RELEASE) NEWCASTLE, 6-Mar-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — Newcastle University’s own Professor Christopher Stewart has emerged as the first from his institution to receive the prestigious Blavatnik Award for Young Scientists in the Life Sciences category. The award, conferred by the Blavatnik Family Foundation in partnership with The New York Academy of Sciences, comes with £100,000 in unrestricted funds and honors Professor Stewart’s pioneering work on microbiome-based therapies aimed at reducing pre-natal infant mortality. His research, which includes groundbreaking discoveries on the beneficial role of human breast milk in cultivating a healthy gut microbiome in premature infants and the development of novel premature gut organoid models, is already reshaping clinical practices both locally and internationally.

The accolade was announced during a black-tie gala at The Orangery at Kensington Palace, hosted by Sir Leonard and Lady Emily Blavatnik, where Professor Shitij Kapur of King’s College London highlighted the transformative potential of young scientists in addressing major societal challenges such as infant mortality, green manufacturing, and long-term climate change. Professor Stewart, deeply moved by the recognition—especially given his personal ties to Newcastle—expressed immense gratitude to his colleagues and supporters who have accompanied him over his 15-year research journey. With over 540 scientists recognized since its inception, the Blavatnik Awards continue to underscore the vital role of innovative research in driving progress and changing the world.

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SOURCE: Newcastle University