Prix Galien CEE Pro Bono Humanum for Novo Nordisk Foundation

Novo Nordisk Foundation to receive the Prix Galien CEE Pro Bono Humanum Award November 18, 2025, during the Prix Galien Gala in Warsaw

WARSAW, October 13, 2025. Prix Galien announces that the laureate of the Prix Galien CEE Pro Bono Humanum 2025 award is the Novo Nordisk Foundation. The distinction has been granted for the Foundation’s outstanding and long-term contribution to healthcare through strategic support of scientific research, innovation, and actions aimed at ensuring equal access to healthcare. The official award ceremony will take place on November 18, 2025, at the DoubleTree by Hilton Conference Centre in Warsaw, during the Prix Galien Gala.

The award will be personally accepted on behalf of the Foundation by Professor Mads Krogsgaard Thomsen, CEO of Novo Nordisk Foundation.

The Pro Bono Humanum Award honors exceptional actions by individuals and institutions that contribute to improving healthcare and enhancing patients’ quality of life. The distinction emphasizes the crucial role of long-term support for science in accelerating discoveries in medicine and pharmacy, strengthening healthcare systems, and effectively translating research into clinical practice.

“The uniqueness of the Novo Nordisk Foundation’s activities lies in combining science, a responsible business approach, and providing support where healthcare needs are greatest. The Foundation not only funds groundbreaking research and the development of new therapies but also supports scientists on an unprecedented scale and engages in activities that truly change patients’ perspectives.” – said Tomasz Hildt, CEO of Prix Galien CEE.

“The leadership of Professor Mads Krogsgaard Thomsen at the Novo Nordisk Foundation is an example of how the vision of a scientist and manager can transform global health challenges into real actions. Thanks to his determination and skills, the Foundation not only supports top-level research but also consistently demonstrates that science and innovation can drive changes improving the health and lives of millions of people worldwide.” – emphasized Professor Cezary Szczylik, MD, PhD, Chairman of the Prix Galien Poland Jury.

About Novo Nordisk Foundation

The Novo Nordisk Foundation is one of the world’s leading organizations supporting health research and innovation. Established in Denmark in 1924, it is an enterprise foundation with philanthropic objectives. The vision of the Foundation is to improve people’s health and the sustainability of society and the planet. It’s mission is to progress research and innovation in the prevention and treatment of cardiometabolic and infectious diseases as well as to advance knowledge and solutions to support a green transformation of society. For over a century, the Foundation has been driving progress in biomedical and clinical research, with a particular focus on diabetes and related conditions. Through a broad portfolio of pro bono initiatives, it provides major grants supporting research, innovation, and education, as well as impact-driven projects that create measurable social value.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Foundation played a vital role by funding scientific research, testing infrastructure, and protective measures. It partners with global institutions such as the World Health Organization (WHO), strengthens healthcare systems in low- and middle-income countries, and invests in regenerative medicine, artificial intelligence, and sustainable development.

Since 2021, the Foundation has expanded its focus to include planetary as well as human health, and now has initiatives spanning sustainable agriculture, climate mitigation, and the green transformation of society. It is led by Professor Mads Krogsgaard Thomsen.

More information about the Novo Nordisk Foundation and its activities can be found at www.novonordiskfonden.dk.

About the Prix Galien Pro Bono Humanum Award

The Pro Bono Humanum Award was established to honor outstanding individuals and institutions whose activities contribute to improving human health, particularly in the most vulnerable communities. This distinction reflects the idea that science and innovation can – and should – be combined with social mission, responsibility, and selfless support for those who need it most.

Previous laureates of the Pro Bono Humanum Award include:

• Bill and Melinda Gates – for their work on global health programs,

• Jimmy Carter, former President of the United States – for his longstanding engagement in the fight against infectious diseases,

• Prince Albert II of Monaco – for pro-health and pro-environment initiatives,

• Lidia and Jerzy Owsiak (CEE) – founders of the Great Orchestra of Christmas Charity,

• Michael J. Fox – for groundbreaking efforts to advance research on Parkinson’s disease through The Michael J. Fox Foundation.

About the Galien Foundation

The Galien Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to fostering, recognizing, and rewarding excellence in scientific innovation that improves human health. Established to oversee the international activities of the Prix Galien — often referred to as the “Nobel Prize for innovation in medicine and pharmacy” — the Foundation provides a platform for dialogue between research, industry, and policy leaders worldwide. The Prix Galien, created in 1970 in France in honor of Claudius Galenus, celebrates outstanding achievements in pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, medical technology, digital health, and public health innovation. The Galien Foundation organizes national and international editions of the award, as well as forums in the United States, Europe, Africa, and Asia, promoting groundbreaking science and encouraging collaboration to address the most pressing healthcare challenges.

More information about the Galien Foundation and Prix Galien Award: www.prixgalienpolska.com, www.galienfoundation.org 

Photo: prof. Mads Krogsgaard Thomsen, CEO Novo Nordisk Foundation

Media contact:Katarzyna Epa, k.epa@prixgaliencee.com +48 508 358 236