We are delighted to announce the 2026 winner of the Philip Hopewell Prize for Global Respiratory Health Research — congratulations to Dr. Joy Nkiru Eze. This prestigious award recognizes Dr. Eze’s outstanding contributions to respiratory health research, capacity building, and global collaboration, with impact extending from Nigeria to the broader international respiratory health community.
Dr. Eze is a Professor of Pediatrics and a Pediatric Pulmonologist at the University of Nigeria and the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital. Her work focuses on advancing lung health through research, training, advocacy, and international collaboration, particularly addressing respiratory diseases affecting children and underserved populations. She has played key roles in initiatives related to asthma, pneumonia, air pollution exposure, lung function testing, and strengthening respiratory research capacity across Africa.
Dr. Eze is actively involved with the American Thoracic Society and the Pan African Thoracic Society, contributing to MECOR training programs, global health committees, mentorship initiatives, and policy efforts aimed at improving respiratory care worldwide. Her commitment to fostering research capacity and supporting emerging investigators reflects the spirit and mission of the Philip Hopewell Prize.
 | “I am extremely delighted to receive the news of my selection as the recipient of the 2026 American Thoracic Society Philip Hopewell Prize for Leaders in Global Respiratory Health Research. I am grateful to the ATS leadership and community for this amazing honour and recognition. This award is only possible because the American Thoracic Society provided me with the platform and opportunities to learn and grow my research and leadership capabilities. In line with the vision of ATS, and Philip Hopewell in whose honour the award was instituted, I shall continue to contribute positively and make more impact on global policies, and strategies aimed at improving outcomes of respiratory conditions worldwide, particularly in Low-and middle-income countries. I shall continue to mentor early career professionals who would become future leaders in global respiratory health through research, advocacy and capacity development.” — Dr. Joy Nkiru Eze MBBS, MPH, MSc, Cert./MPhil PaedsPulm (RSA), FWACP, ATSF |
About The Philip Hopewell Prize
The Philip Hopewell Prize for Global Respiratory Health Research is designed to recognize mid-career investigators in low- and middle-income countries who have demonstrated outstanding commitment to clinical and research excellence. This commitment is exemplified by their published research in peer-reviewed journals and their dedicated contributions to global health policy.
Objective: The primary aim of this award is to empower and support these deserving individuals on their path to becoming established leaders in Global Respiratory Health. Through a comprehensive program of longitudinal support, including professional development, networking opportunities, and mentorship, we intend to catalyze their impact on respiratory health worldwide.
Eligibility:
- Mid-career investigators in low- and middle-income countries
- Demonstrated commitment to clinical and research excellence in the field of respiratory health, with a record of published research in peer-reviewed journals
- A strong dedication to advancing global health policy
Award Package for the Awardee: The recipient of The Philip Hopewell Prize will enjoy the following benefits for three years starting in 2026:
- Conference Registration
- Conference Travel Support
- Support for Education Development
- Waived Publication Fee for ATS Journals: One-time waiver of publication fees for one of the ATS journals.
Total Award Value: The cumulative value of the award for each year is $3,565, and over three years, the total award value amounts to $10,695.
Please note that the cash award will be presented during the ATS 2026 Conference in the form of a check.
The Philip Hopewell Prize for Leaders in Global Respiratory Health stands as a testament to our commitment to advancing respiratory health worldwide. Join us in celebrating Dr. Philip Hopewell's legacy and supporting the future leaders who will shape the field.
For inquiries and further information, please contact Muricia Alexander or Daniel Cwirka.