Honoring Excellence in Hematology: Meet the 2026 EHA Award Winners
The European Hematology Association (EHA) proudly announces the recipients of its 2026 EHA Awards, celebrating the clinicians, researchers, mentors, and emerging leaders who continue to elevate hematology worldwide.
The EHA Awards continue to reflect not only personal achievement but also EHA’s commitment to innovation, excellence, diversity, and the advancement of global hematology. Guided by independent selection criteria, each award recognizes individuals whose work has transformed patient care, scientific understanding, and professional development across the field. The EHA community sent in nominations, which were judged by a selection panel that included the EHA Board, Young EHA (EHA’s early-career community), the Patient Advocacy Committee (representing the patient advocacy organizations), and the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Taskforce.
The 2026 EHA Awards span six core categories:
- EHA Clinical Excellence Award
- EHA Research Excellence Award
- EHA Education & Mentoring Award
- EHA Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) Award
- Young EHA Award
These categories collectively recognize excellence across clinical practice, scientific discovery, mentorship, equity, and leadership, exemplifying the depth and diversity of hematology’s global community.
A life dedicated to advancing myeloproliferative neoplasms
Prof Claire Harrison is honored with the EHA Lifetime Achievement Award for her exceptional contributions to hematology, including prolific, practice‑changing academic work, leadership of clinical trials, and her influence on patient advocacy as co‑founder of MPN Voice and trustee of Blood Cancer UK.
With more than 300 publications and multiple prestigious recognitions, she stands out as an inspiring, approachable mentor who keeps patients at the heart of her work.
Transforming protocols in leukemia and hematologic malignancies
Prof Josep‑Maria Ribera is recognized with the EHA Clinical Excellence Award for his distinguished career as a senior consultant, professor, and key figure in European cooperative groups. His contributions have advanced diagnostic and treatment protocols for hematologic malignancies, shaping clinical practice across Europe and beyond.
Through academic leadership, mentorship of future specialists, and active participation in international committees, Prof Ribera has profoundly influenced patient outcomes and the scientific direction of the field.
Revolutionizing cancer genomics and myeloid malignancy research
Prof George Vassiliou is honored with the EHA Research Excellence Award for pioneering research into the early biology, pathogenesis, and treatment of myeloid malignancies and for shaping international standards in cancer genomics. His leadership in hematological medicine, combined with influential contributions to clinical excellence and education, has advanced global understanding of cancer genetics.
He is also widely recognized for fostering the next generation of leaders through dedicated mentorship.
A legacy of mentorship, global collaboration, and educational excellence
Prof Raúl Córdoba Mascuñano is celebrated for his clarity, enthusiasm, and transformative impact in hematology education with the EHA Education and Mentoring Award. He has guided numerous professionals toward successful careers, championing collaborative learning and ethical, patient-centered care.
His work within EHA’s educational initiatives and worldwide programs highlights his enduring role in training and inspiring future leaders in hematology.
Advancing equity, access, and global scientific collaboration
Prof Gianluca Gaidano receives the EHA Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Award for his scientific contributions in B‑cell malignancies and his leadership in promoting equitable access to research and patient care. His active engagement in European research networks and cross‑border collaborations demonstrates how scientific progress can bridge disparities and expand opportunities for diverse patient populations.
A rising star shaping the future of global hematology
Dr Nico Gagelmann is honored with the Young EHA Award for extraordinary early-career accomplishments, remarkable research productivity, and visionary leadership in building global collaboration structures for young hematologists.
His contributions include groundbreaking work in stem cell transplantation and cellular therapy, alongside mentoring early-career researchers. He is widely recognized for dynamic presentations, strong scientific output, and his ability to mobilize international young-professional networks.
Spotlighting excellence at the 2026 EHA Annual Congress
Each year, the EHA Annual Congress brings together thousands of hematology professionals from around the world, creating a vibrant meeting point for science, collaboration, and community. In 2026, we look forward to once again honoring our award recipients live on stage and celebrating their achievements in front of an international audience of peers, partners, and future innovators.