Jennifer S. Lawton, M.D., FAHA, has been named the recipient of the American Heart Association's 2026 Basic Research Prize. The award recognizes her pioneering translational research focused on protecting the heart and brain during cardiac surgery, a body of work that has fundamentally advanced the understanding of myocardial protection and neuroprotection. She will receive the honor during the Association's Scientific Sessions 2026, to be held Nov. 6-9 in Chicago, with formal recognition at the Presidential Session on Sunday, Nov. 8.
Dr. Lawton, formerly the Richard B. Darnall Professor of Surgery and chief of the division of cardiac surgery at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine in Baltimore, is now faculty at the University of Maryland. Her laboratory has been instrumental in defining the mechanisms through which adenosine triphosphate-sensitive potassium (KATP) channels protect the heart from ischemic injury. This work has helped uncover novel mechanisms that reduce myocardial injury during ischemia and reperfusion, a critical concern in cardiac surgery where temporary interruption of blood flow is often necessary.
Among her most significant scientific contributions is the first FDA-regulated, first-in-human Phase I Safety and Feasibility Trial of Cardioplegia with Diazoxide (CPG-DZX). This trial represents a major step in translating basic science discoveries into potential therapies that could improve outcomes for patients undergoing complex cardiac operations. Her research investigating neurologic injury during circulatory arrest has also advanced knowledge of protective strategies that reduce injury during cardiac surgery, addressing a persistent challenge in procedures requiring hypothermic circulatory arrest.
Manesh R. Patel, M.D., FAHA, the American Heart Association's 2026-2027 volunteer president, praised Dr. Lawton's contributions. "Congratulations to Dr. Jennifer Lawton, whose groundbreaking research has advanced the understanding of myocardial protection and transformed the translation of basic cardiovascular science into therapies that improve patient care," Patel said. "She is an innovative scientist, accomplished surgeon and exceptional leader whose contributions have advanced cardiovascular research and inspire the next generation of physician-scientists."
The implications of this recognition extend beyond a single career. Dr. Lawton's work has received sustained funding from the National Institutes of Health, the American Heart Association and the Thoracic Surgery Foundation, underscoring the broad institutional commitment to translating laboratory findings into clinical practice. More recently, her research has expanded into brain protection during hypothermic circulatory arrest while continuing to advance innovative therapies for patients undergoing complex cardiac operations. This dual focus on heart and brain protection addresses two of the most serious risks in cardiac surgery, potentially reducing complications and improving long-term outcomes for patients.
Beyond her research, Dr. Lawton has dedicated her career to mentoring future surgeon-scientists, training dozens of medical students, residents, fellows and postdoctoral researchers who now serve as academic leaders, cardiac surgeons and physician-scientists worldwide. She has authored more than 250 scientific manuscripts and held numerous leadership positions within national surgical organizations and editorial boards. Her volunteer leadership with the Heart Association includes serving as vice chair of the Council on Cardiovascular Surgery and Anesthesia from 2015 to 2017 and as chair from 2017 to 2019. She also chaired the AHA/ACC/SCAI Guideline Writing Committee for Coronary Artery Revascularization from 2019 to 2021.
Dr. Lawton expressed gratitude for the award. "It is an incredible honor to receive this recognition from the American Heart Association, an organization that has supported numerous projects throughout my career and is a champion supporter of cardiovascular research across the spectrum," she said. "I look forward to continuing my journey of scientific discovery, collaboration and improving outcomes for patients through research."
The 2026 Basic Research Prize highlights the critical role of foundational science in driving clinical advances. As cardiac surgery continues to evolve toward less invasive and more complex procedures, strategies to protect the heart and brain from injury remain paramount. Dr. Lawton's work provides a scientific framework that could lead to new therapies and techniques, ultimately benefiting patients who require life-saving cardiac operations. Her recognition also signals the American Heart Association's ongoing commitment to supporting research that bridges the laboratory and the operating room.
