Dame Carol Robinson named Lifetime Achievement laureate in European Inventor Award
The European Patent Office (EPO) is proud to announce Dame Carol Robinson is the Lifetime Achievement laureate in the European Inventor Award 2024. An independent jury selected the British chemist for her extensive contributions to blood analysis, drug development and biochemical research. Robinson’s career also stands as a pillar for gender diversity in STEM, as the first woman to hold a full professorship in chemistry at both Oxford and Cambridge Universities. In addition, her commitment to mentorship has inspired numerous postgraduate students and early-career scientists.
Despite initial scepticism for her work, Robinson persevered: “As a scientist, I've always been quite fearless about going in my own direction. That has been my mantra throughout my career. I never wanted to follow the crowd."
The EPO will pay tribute to her life and work during the European Inventor Award ceremony streamed from Malta on 9 July 2024. At the same ceremony, the EPO will reveal the winners in each category as well as the Popular Prize winner, chosen by online public vote.
Pioneering personalised medicine
Mass spectrometry is an analytical tool that enables the detection of molecules and so helps scientists identify the composition of chemical substances, including proteins. Robinson developed 'native mass spectrometry', a technique that preserves proteins in their natural state without altering their structure, allowing scientists to gain detailed insights into their functions and interactions. It enables precise measurements and analyses of protein complexes that play critical roles in various diseases. This breakthrough paves the way for the development of targeted medications that can address disease mechanisms more effectively than ever before.
Further information
Related items
The 2024 winners represent Europe, Asia and Africa, with women inventors featuring prominently
Finalists from Tunisia, Ukraine and the Netherlands, contribute to sustainability, healthcare and technological advancements for mobility aids.
World-shaping inventions in the spotlight: cast a vote for your favourite in the Popular Prize
The Lifetime Achievement laureate was honoured for her mRNA breakthroughs, which paved the way to effective COVID-19 vaccines.
New Networks aims to encourage an interest in STEM among younger generations
Women inventors feature prominently, winning inventions reflect shift towards sustainability
The EPO will celebrate the life and career of the Spanish professor during the 2023 European Inventor Award ceremony.
Innovators shape the future with solutions in education, clean water and wildlife conservation.
Finalists representing 12 countries to be honoured at ceremony on 4 July
EPO announces winners of European Inventor Award and inaugural Young Inventors prize
Shortlist recognises problem-solving initiatives from inspiring innovators aged 30 and under
Award highlights breakthroughs in cancer research, renewable energy, climate innovation, green industry, medical technology and manufacturing
Message of condolence from the management and staff members of European Patent Office.
The Japanese chemist Akira Yoshino, winner of the European Inventor Award 2019, has been awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry this year.
The European Patent Office (EPO) today honoured exceptional inventors from Austria, France, Japan, the Netherlands and Spain with the European Invento
The winners of the European Inventor Award 2019 will be announced later this week (20 June) when the EPO and IP community come together to celebrate the spirit of innovation at a ceremony in Vienna.