The Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine is one of the five Nobel Prizes established by Alfred Nobel in 1895. It is awarded annually to individuals or groups who have made outstanding contributions to the field of physiology or medicine, including discoveries or inventions that have significantly improved our understanding of human health and disease.
The Nobel Prize 2020 in Physiology or Medicine was jointly awarded to Harvey J. Alter, Michael Houghton, and Charles M. Rice for their discovery of the hepatitis C virus. Their work has led to the development of life-saving blood tests and antiviral treatments for the disease, which affects millions of people worldwide.
The Nobel Laureates for the Physiology or Medicine Prize are selected by the Nobel Assembly at Karolinska Institutet in Stockholm, Sweden. The assembly consists of 50 professors in medical and natural sciences, who are appointed by the Karolinska Institutet. The selection process involves a nomination and evaluation process, followed by a final decision by the assembly.
The Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine is considered one of the highest honors in the field of medicine and physiology. It recognizes groundbreaking discoveries and advancements that have had a significant impact on human health and well-being. Winning the prize can also bring attention and funding to further research in the field.
The Nobel Prize ceremony for Physiology or Medicine takes place on December 10th, the anniversary of Alfred Nobel's death, in Stockholm, Sweden. Unlike other Nobel Prizes, the ceremony is held at the Karolinska Institutet and not at the Nobel Banquet at the Stockholm City Hall. The laureates also receive their prize from the King of Sweden, rather than the Nobel Foundation in Oslo, Norway.