Three esteemed faculty members from the Yale School of Medicine have been elected to the National Academy of Medicine (NAM) for 2025, an honor recognizing their exceptional contributions to the fields of health and medicine. This prestigious election highlights their professional achievements and commitment to service, marking one of the highest accolades in the medical community.
Notable Achievements of Yale Faculty
Martina Brueckner, MD, a professor of pediatrics (cardiology) and genetics, received recognition for her groundbreaking research on the cellular and molecular mechanisms that lead to vertebrate left-right asymmetry. Her discoveries include a genetic cause for approximately 40% of congenital heart disease, significantly impacting the field of pediatric cardiology.
In addition, Lieping Chen, MD, PhD, the United Technologies Corporation Professor in Cancer Research, was honored for his pivotal work in immunobiology, dermatology, and medical oncology. Chen’s research has profoundly enhanced the understanding of how cancers evade immune detection. He is credited with discovering the PD-L1 molecule, a protein that inhibits immune response and fosters tumor growth. His findings have paved the way for essential immunotherapies, providing new avenues for cancer treatment.
Tamas Horvath, DVM, PhD, the Jean and David W. Wallace Professor of Comparative Medicine, was also elected for his innovative insights into metabolic regulation by the hypothalamus. His research demonstrates how hypothalamic circuits influence higher brain functions and neurodegeneration, reshaping the understanding of integrative physiology in both health and disease.
A Growing Community of Leaders in Medicine
Brueckner, Chen, and Horvath join a distinguished group of approximately 2,500 current NAM members. Each year, 100 new individuals are elected, with 90 from the United States and 10 international members, as chosen by existing members. This process underscores the Academy’s commitment to recognizing and celebrating significant advancements in medical science.
The Yale School of Medicine plays a critical role in shaping the future of healthcare. It is recognized as a global leader in biomedical research, clinical care, and medical education. With a dedicated team of over 1,700 physicians, Yale provides compassionate care to patients around the world. The institution’s unique educational model emphasizes critical thinking and independent research, producing leaders equipped to advance academic medicine.
As the healthcare landscape evolves, the achievements of Brueckner, Chen, and Horvath exemplify the innovation and dedication required to address the pressing challenges in medicine today. Their recognition by the National Academy of Medicine not only honors their individual accomplishments but also reflects the continued excellence of the Yale School of Medicine in fostering groundbreaking research and education.
