The American Heart Association (AHA) has named Jennifer S. Lawton, M.D., FAHA, as the recipient of its 2026 Basic Research Prize. She will be recognized during the Association’s Scientific Sessions 2026, to be held Nov. 6–9 in Chicago, with the award presented at the Presidential Session on Sunday, Nov. 8. The prize honors her pioneering translational research focused on protecting the heart and brain during cardiac surgery—work that has advanced the understanding of adenosine triphosphate-sensitive potassium (KATP) channels and the cardioprotective effects of diazoxide.
Dr. Lawton, formerly the Richard B. Darnall Professor of Surgery and chief of the division of cardiac surgery at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, is now faculty at the University of Maryland. Her laboratory has uncovered novel mechanisms that reduce myocardial injury during ischemia and reperfusion. This research led to the first FDA-regulated, first-in-human Phase I Safety and Feasibility Trial of Cardioplegia with Diazoxide (CPG-DZX). Additionally, her investigations into neurologic injury during circulatory arrest have advanced protective strategies used to reduce injury during complex cardiac operations.
“Congratulations to Dr. Jennifer Lawton, whose groundbreaking research has advanced the understanding of myocardial protection and transformed the translation of basic cardiovascular science into therapies that improve patient care,” said Manesh R. Patel, M.D., FAHA, the American Heart Association's 2026-2027 volunteer president. “She is an innovative scientist, accomplished surgeon and exceptional leader whose contributions have advanced cardiovascular research and inspire the next generation of physician-scientists.”
The significance of this award extends beyond a single career milestone. Dr. Lawton’s work addresses one of the most critical challenges in cardiac surgery: preventing injury to the heart and brain when blood flow is temporarily interrupted. By defining the mechanisms through which KATP channel activation protects the heart from ischemic injury, her research has provided a foundation for new therapeutic approaches. The CPG-DZX trial represents a direct translation of these basic science findings into a potential clinical therapy, a process that can take decades. Her sustained funding from the National Institutes of Health, the American Heart Association and the Thoracic Surgery Foundation underscores the rigor and impact of her investigations.
“It is an incredible honor to receive this recognition from the American Heart Association, an organization that has supported numerous projects throughout my career and is a champion supporter of cardiovascular research across the spectrum,” said Dr. Lawton. “I look forward to continuing my journey of scientific discovery, collaboration and improving outcomes for patients through research.”
Beyond her research, Dr. Lawton has dedicated her career to mentoring future surgeon-scientists. She has trained dozens of medical students, residents, fellows and postdoctoral researchers, many of whom now serve as academic leaders and cardiac surgeons worldwide. She has authored more than 250 scientific manuscripts and held numerous leadership roles, including chairing the AHA/ACC/SCAI Guideline Writing Committee for Coronary Artery Revascularization from 2019 to 2021 and serving as chair of the AHA’s Council on Cardiovascular Surgery and Anesthesia from 2017 to 2019. Her editorial contributions include serving as deputy editor for the Annals of Thoracic Surgery and on the editorial board of the Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, JAMA Cardiology and the European Journal of Cardiothoracic Surgery.
Dr. Lawton’s recognition highlights the vital role of basic and translational research in improving patient care. As the AHA continues to champion cardiovascular science, her work exemplifies how laboratory discoveries can lead to first-in-human trials and, ultimately, to better outcomes for patients undergoing complex cardiac operations. The 2026 Basic Research Prize not only celebrates her achievements but also underscores the importance of bridging the gap between bench and bedside—a mission that remains central to the Association’s pursuit of longer, healthier lives.
