Honorary doctorate strengthens cancer research at Sahlgrenska Academy
Professor Jonathan Zager of Moffitt Cancer Center and the University of South Florida has been awarded an honorary doctorate in medicine by Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg.
The appointment recognises his outstanding scientific contributions and a long-standing collaboration with researchers at the University of Gothenburg in melanoma research, surgical oncology, and the development of new treatment strategies for patients with advanced cancer.
The decision was made by the Board of Sahlgrenska Academy, chaired by Dean Jenny Nyström.
“Jonathan Zager exemplifies the close integration of research, education, and clinical development that is central to Sahlgrenska Academy. Through his collaboration with researchers in Gothenburg, he has contributed to new knowledge, academic exchange, and improved treatment opportunities for patients with difficult-to-treat cancer,” says Jenny Nyström, Professor of Physiology and Dean of Sahlgrenska Academy.
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A long-standing collaboration
Jonathan Zager is a professor at Moffitt Cancer Center and the University of South Florida. His research focuses on melanoma and the development of perfusion-based treatment methods for patients with advanced cancer. In particular, he has contributed to the development of treatments that deliver high concentrations of drugs to a defined area of the body. These approaches can improve treatment effectiveness while reducing the impact on surrounding healthy tissues.
The collaboration with researchers at Sahlgrenska Academy has continued for more than a decade and has resulted in joint research projects, scientific publications, and clinical studies. Through his scientific leadership and extensive international networks, he has also helped strengthen the University of Gothenburg’s international partnerships in cancer research.
As an honorary doctor, Jonathan Zager can help develop Sahlgrenska Academy’s international collaborations and create new opportunities for joint research projects, doctoral education, and academic exchange.
Individuals appointed honorary doctors at Sahlgrenska Academy have made significant contributions to research or education at the faculty, or have otherwise advanced knowledge within the Academy’s areas of activity. An honorary doctorate is both a recognition of past achievements and an expression of the value of continued collaboration between the Academy and distinguished individuals in research, healthcare, and society.
Some well-known honorary doctors at Sahlgrenska Academy
- Queen Silvia of Sweden (1999) – was awarded an honorary doctorate in medicine at the University of Gothenburg in recognition of her long-standing commitment to children’s health, dementia care, and social welfare.
- Denis Mukwege (2019) – physician, human rights advocate and Nobel Peace Prize laureate. He was appointed honorary doctor at Sahlgrenska Academy in recognition of his important collaboration with the University of Gothenburg and his work on behalf of women affected by sexual violence in conflict settings.
- Carolina Klüft (2021) – former Olympic champion and chief executive of the non-profit organisation Generation Pep. She was awarded an honorary doctorate in medicine for her efforts to promote physical activity and health among children and young people.