Prof. Awandare honoured with 2025 Bailey K. Ashford Medal for Excellence in Tropical Medicine
Professor Gordon Awandare, Founding Director of the West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (WACCBIP), has been honoured with the 2025 Bailey K. Ashford Medal by the American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene (ASTMH) for his exceptional contributions to tropical medicine, infectious disease research, and scientific capacity building in Africa.
The award was presented on Sunday, November 9, 2025, at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre during the Society’s Annual Meeting. Prof. Awandare was one of four scientists recognised globally—and the only African among this year’s awardees—highlighting the rising international influence of African-led scientific research.
Celebrating a Trailblazer in Malaria Research
Prof. Awandare is renowned for his groundbreaking work on malaria pathogenesis, particularly his research into parasite biology and immune responses that continues to shape global efforts in diagnostics, treatment, and vaccine development.
He has also emerged as a leading voice in African scientific advancement. Since establishing WACCBIP in 2014, he has overseen its growth into one of the continent’s most influential research centres, training hundreds of young African scientists and expanding research into viral, bacterial, and genetic diseases.
“Excellence in science knows no geographical boundaries”
In a citation, the ASTMH Medals Committee praised Prof. Awandare for his “important contributions to the understanding and control of tropical diseases” and his “continuing work on behalf of people in need throughout the world.”
Receiving the medal, Prof. Awandare expressed gratitude to the Society and to his colleagues at the University of Ghana.
“This award is not just a personal achievement,” he said. “It is a recognition of the incredible work being done by my colleagues and students at WACCBIP and across Africa. It shows that excellence in science knows no geographical boundaries. When given the right environment and support, African scientists can make discoveries that change the world.”
A milestone for WACCBIP and University of Ghana
The University of Ghana hailed the honour as a significant achievement for both the institution and African science. Vice-Chancellor Professor Nana Aba Appiah Amfo described the recognition as “a proud moment for the University and for Ghanaian science,” noting that Prof. Awandare’s leadership embodies the University’s commitment to research excellence and innovation.
WACCBIP’s rise as a continental leader has been marked by collaborations with global research giants including the University of Cambridge, the University of Oxford, and the U.S. National Institutes of Health. The Centre has also played a central role in Ghana’s genomic surveillance during the COVID-19 pandemic and in cutting-edge research on antimicrobial resistance and genetic diseases.
Strengthening Africa’s role in global science
Prof. Awandare’s recognition underscores ongoing calls for increased investment in Africa’s scientific infrastructure. His career demonstrates how sustained funding, advanced training and international partnerships can equip African researchers to address major global health threats.
