The Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai has awarded its prestigious 2025 Yergin-New International Prize for Biomedical Research to Michael J. Welsh, MD, professor in Pulmonary, Critical Care, & Occupational Medicine, recognizing his groundbreaking contributions to cystic fibrosis (CF) research.

Welsh’s pioneering work uncovered the cellular mechanisms behind CF, notably identifying the absence of a chloride channel in CF-affected cells. His lab’s discovery that the CFTR gene forms an ion channel revolutionized understanding of the disease and led to the development of therapies that now benefit 90% of CF patients.

In addition to his many achievements, Welsh’s dedication to mentoring future scientists and advancing gene therapy approaches continues to shape the field globally. Countless trainees, educators, clinicians, and researchers within University of Iowa Health Care and the Department of Internal Medicine have benefited from Welsh’s guidance and leadership.

The award, which includes a $50,000 prize and the opportunity to deliver the Maria I. New Distinguished Lecture, celebrates lifetime achievements in biomedical science. It is named in honor of Dr. Maria I. New, a legendary figure in pediatric endocrinology, and is endowed by Daniel Yergin and Angela Stent.

The full announcement is available on Mount Sinai’s official press release.