Pfizer Research Prize 2026 for Miaomiao Sun and Tobias Weiss
UZH researchers Miaomiao Sun and Tobias Weiss have received the Pfizer Research Prize 2026 for their innovative macrophage-based cell therapy targeting glioblastoma.
UZH researchers Miaomiao Sun and Tobias Weiss have been awarded the Pfizer Research Prize 2026 for their ground-breaking work in oncology. Their project focuses on a novel cell therapy that uses macrophages to deliver cancer drugs directly and safely to tumor cells in the brain, while simultaneously triggering an antitumor immune response. This approach offers a promising new perspective for treating glioblastoma, the most common and aggressive brain tumor in adults.
In preclinical studies, the therapy demonstrated strong antitumor effects, extended the survival of tumor-bearing mice, and stimulated a lasting immune response against the tumor in some animals. The combination of direct tumor destruction and immune system activation could pave the way for new treatment options for patients with glioblastoma.
The Pfizer Research Prize has been awarded since 1992 and recognizes outstanding scientific achievements that make a significant contribution to medical innovation. The foundation supports medical research in Switzerland and encourages young researchers in their work.
The Dean of the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Zurich warmly congratulates Miaomiao Sun and Tobias Weiss on this award and commends their innovative approach, which brings hope to patients with glioblastoma.
Source: Pfizer Research Prize 2026