The American Heart Association will honor Dr. Jennifer S. Lawton with its 2026 Basic Research Prize at Scientific Sessions 2026, to be held Nov. 6-9 in Chicago. The award recognizes her pioneering translational research on myocardial protection and neuroprotection during cardiac surgery, work that has advanced the understanding of adenosine triphosphate-sensitive potassium (KATP) channels and the cardioprotective effects of diazoxide. Her laboratory conducted the first FDA-regulated, first-in-human Phase I Safety and Feasibility Trial of Cardioplegia with Diazoxide (CPG-DZX).
Dr. Lawton's research matters because it directly addresses the injury that occurs when blood flow is restored after cardiac surgery, a major cause of complications. By uncovering mechanisms that reduce myocardial injury during ischemia and reperfusion, her work has the potential to improve outcomes for countless patients undergoing complex cardiac operations. Her investigations into neurologic injury during circulatory arrest have also advanced protective strategies that reduce brain damage during surgery.
“Dr. Jennifer Lawton's groundbreaking research has advanced the understanding of myocardial protection and transformed the translation of basic cardiovascular science into therapies that improve patient care,” said Manesh R. Patel, M.D., FAHA, the American Heart Association's 2026-2027 volunteer president. “She is an innovative scientist, accomplished surgeon and exceptional leader whose contributions have advanced cardiovascular research and inspire the next generation of physician-scientists.”
Beyond her scientific contributions, Dr. Lawton has dedicated her career to mentoring future surgeon-scientists. She has trained dozens of medical students, residents, fellows and postdoctoral researchers, many of whom now serve as academic leaders and cardiac surgeons worldwide. She has authored more than 250 scientific manuscripts and held numerous leadership positions within national surgical organizations and professional societies. Her research has received sustained funding from the National Institutes of Health, the American Heart Association and the Thoracic Surgery Foundation.
“It is an incredible honor to receive this recognition from the American Heart Association, an organization that has supported numerous projects throughout my career and is a champion supporter of cardiovascular research across the spectrum,” said Dr. Lawton. “I look forward to continuing my journey of scientific discovery, collaboration and improving outcomes for patients through research.”
Dr. Lawton's recognition underscores the importance of basic research in driving clinical breakthroughs. Her work exemplifies how understanding fundamental biological mechanisms can lead to therapies that save lives and improve recovery for patients undergoing cardiac surgery. The award will be presented during the Presidential Session on Sunday, Nov. 8, at Scientific Sessions 2026, a premier global exchange of cardiovascular science. For more information, visit the American Heart Association's website at heart.org.
