Bernard Haber Award for 2005
Bernard Haber Award for 2005
For senior neurochemists, who hark back to the modern origins of neurochemistry as a recognized discipline, Abel Lajtha stands out as a pioneer who played a major role in defining the profession. Between 1954 and 1960, four international neurochemical meetings were held whose attendants formed the nucleus of neurochemists who founded the journal of Neurochemistry in 1957, the ISN in 1967, and the ASN in 1969. Abel Lajtha contributed to these meetings, participated in the Organizing Committees and was a charter member of both the ISN and ASN.
In addition to these historical accomplishments, Abel distinguished himself through his research, journalistic and administrative contributions, Now well into his eighth decade, his Handbook of Neurochemistry continues to be a respected reference (a new edition is currently underway); and the Journal of Neurochemical Research, for which he has served as Editor-in-Chief for over 30 years, continues under his stewardship.
His bibliography lists over 600 publications on a variety of topics. Many will be familiar with his classic work on protein synthesis and breakdown using radioisotopic turnover of valine, which gave us our first insights into the turnover of brain proteins. He continues to maintain an active laboratory and currently has a grant to study the effects of nicotine on brain chemistry.
Abel's election as President of the ASN and Chairman of the ISN document his high esteem among fellow neurochemists. Beyond that, he has fostered international neurochemical interactions in a number of additional ways. Notably, he originated the idea of satellites attached to international meetings. This highly successful tradition has permitted neurochemical subspecialties to "piggyback," often attracting scientists who would otherwise not have attended the general meeting and, as a byproduct, has permitted scientists to see a bit more of the countries that host ISN meetings.
Beginning with his Hungarian roots, Abel has a virtual network of colleagues and friends around the world, particularly in Eastern Europe. He has helped place promising young scientists in many American laboratories, including his own, to the great benefit of world neurochemistry. In summary, Abel Lajtha is truly deserving of being the recipient of the first Bernard Haber Award.
3/10/2008 SL