TCD Professor of Biochemistry Prof Luke O’Neill has won the prestigious RDS Irish Times Boyle Medal for Scientific Excellence for his pioneering work on the molecular understanding of innate immunity and inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis.

His distinguished work has focused on ‘Toll-like receptors’, a family of proteins that respond to infection and trigger inflammation, and are required to eliminate invading microbes.

He has gained worldwide recognition for his contribution to this field of research.

Congratulating Prof O’Neill, Prof Frank Gannon, Director General of Science Foundation Ireland (SFI), stated: “Luke is a recognised world leading researcher who has made groundbreaking discoveries and significant contributions to science. I am sure he will continue to make a significant impact through his research. He is an outstanding example of the quality of research talent nurtured by SFI in Ireland.”

Inaugurated in 1899, the biennial award includes a prize of E20,000 and alternates between a scientist based in Ireland and an Irish scientist working abroad.

Prof O’Neill will be conferred with his medal and give a public lecture at the RDS on November 16.