GENEVA, 19 June 2020: The Wyss Center’s Chief Development Officer (CDO), Dr Tracy Laabs, has been awarded Pharmacology and Toxicology Alumna of the Year by the University of Wisconsin–Madison, in recognition of her career accomplishments and global impact on research and translation.

“Early on, I realized I wanted to do science to help people.” says Laabs, “I am really honored and happy to have been recognized in this way. I feel it’s a validation of the importance of pursuing a career that’s not necessarily traditional but still impactful.”

The common thread throughout her career has been the application of biomedical knowledge, acquired during her undergraduate degree at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and shaped by her PhD at the University of Cambridge, to benefit the world-wide community of people living with nervous system disorders.

As Tracy’s career has progressed around the world, from the US to the UK and eventually to Switzerland, she has adopted the Wisconsin Idea, that research should be applied to solve problems and improve health and quality of life.

The University of Wisconsin Pharmacy Alumni Association spokesperson said: “Tracy, your accomplishments speak for themselves and we are honored to call you a School of Pharmacy Alumna. Congratulations, on behalf of the Pharmacy Alumni Association”.

Dr Laabs joined the Wyss Center as Deputy Director in 2015 and was instrumental in establishing the Center as an international leader in neurotechnology. In March 2020 Dr Laabs was promoted to CDO and she now leads the Center’s development strategy, collaborations and fundraising efforts to accelerate the translation of neuroscience and technology to the patient.

Wyss Center CEO, Dr Mary Tolikas said: “We are pleased and proud that Tracy’s accomplishments and commitment to improve lives have been acknowledged by this award. She continues to chart an incredible career as she helps the Wyss Center further expand its network in Switzerland and internationally.”