A researcher working to find new ways to fight antibiotic-resistant infections, and a distinguished scientist whose work has helped deliver a treatment for an aggressive blood cancer, have been recognised at Medicines New Zealand’s 2026 Value of Medicines Awards. The Awards will be presented to the winners at a parliamentary awards ceremony tonight, which will be attended by scientists, researchers, politicians and a wide range of health sector stakeholders.

Dr Keely Oldham, a postdoctoral fellow at the University of Waikato, has received the Innovation Jump Start Award for research exploring a new antimicrobial approach called phage therapy. Her work aims to identify ways to disrupt essential bacterial processes, opening potential new pathways for treating infections that are becoming increasingly resistant to existing medicines.

Professor Richard Furneaux, a Distinguished Scientist at the Ferrier Research Institute Te Kāuru at Victoria University of Wellington Te Herenga Waka, has received the Award for Excellence in Innovative Medicines Research. Professor Furneaux is being recognised for a career that has taken New Zealand science from the laboratory towards new medicines. His work in carbohydrate chemistry and drug discovery has contributed to medicines development internationally.

“Through these awards, Medicines New Zealand is actively supporting New Zealand’s science and health research. The awards reflect the importance of a strong research and development ecosystem in New Zealand, and we are proud to acknowledge and support the New Zealanders who already are and who will in the future contribute to that.” said Todd Krieble, Chairman of Medicines New Zealand.

The Innovation Jumpstart Award will support Dr Oldham with both project funding for the next stage of her research and career support funding for professional development. The Award for Excellence in Innovative Medicines Research recognises the more than forty years of dedication Professor Furneaux has made to biopharmaceutical research through his work in carbohydrate chemistry, drug discovery and research translation.

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Medicines New Zealand is the industry association representing biopharmaceutical companies operating in New Zealand. We advocate for the benefits of modern medicines and vaccines as part of a high-quality public health system.

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