FNR Awards 2024: LIH mentors guide tomorrow’s scientific innovators

Luxembourg Institute of Health’s Dr Johannes Meiser and Dr Torsten Bohn honoured with FNR Outstanding Mentor Award

• NutriHealth
• Department of Cancer Research

Dr Johannes Meiser, Director of the Department of Cancer Research, and Dr Torsten Bohn, leader of the Nutrition and Health Research Group at the Department of Precision Health, have been awarded the 2024 FNR Outstanding Mentor Award. The ceremony took place on October 17th, celebrating their invaluable contributions to fostering research talent in Luxembourg.

At the 2024 FNR Awards Ceremony on October 17th, two leading researchers from the Luxembourg Institute of Health (LIH), Dr Johannes Meiser and Dr Torsten Bohn, were awarded the FNR Outstanding Mentor Award for their exceptional contributions to mentoring young scientists. This award celebrates those who have gone above and beyond in shaping the next generation of researchers, recognizing the profound impact of mentorship on scientific advancement.

Dr Johannes Meiser, Director of the Department of Cancer Research at LIH, is known for his pioneering work in cancer metabolism. Supported by a prestigious ERC Consolidator Grant and the FNR ATTRACT programme, Dr Meiser leads a team dedicated to unravelling the role of metabolism in cancer metastasis. His project, 4M8, focuses on the role of formate in promoting cancer cell spread. These highly competitive grants—considered among the top acknowledgements in European science—highlight the groundbreaking nature of his research. Reflecting on his role as a mentor, Dr Meiser emphasized,

Mentorship is not just about guiding experiments. It’s about fostering an environment where young scientists are encouraged to explore bold, innovative ideas and take ownership of their research. I’m deeply humbled to receive this recognition for something so vital to the future of science.

Dr Torsten Bohn, leader of the Nutrition and Health Research Group, has earned a global reputation for his research in nutrition, focusing on nutrient absorption and its links to diseases such as obesity and cardiovascular issues. His HealthyW8 project, aimed at revolutionizing obesity prevention through personalized digital solutions, is an example of his forward-thinking approach. Dr Bohn’s contributions to the field have earned him numerous accolades, including being listed for five consecutive years as one of Clarivate’s Highly Cited Researchers and serving on the prestigious Nutrition, Novel Foods and Food Allergens panel of the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). In 2021, he was also honoured with the royal title of ‘Chevalier de l’Ordre de Mérite’ by the Grand Duke of Luxembourg for his contributions to science and culture. Speaking on his mentoring philosophy, Dr Bohn said,

Mentoring goes beyond sharing expertise—it’s about inspiring the next generation of researchers to think critically, collaborate, and push boundaries. I’m truly honoured to be acknowledged for this important work, and grateful to my team for their support.

The FNR Awards, which have recognized over 80 recipients since 2009, aim to promote excellence in research and encourage communication between scientists. By celebrating outstanding mentorship, the awards emphasize the importance of nurturing talent and fostering a healthy, supportive research environment. Dr Meiser and Dr Bohn’s achievements reflect LIH’s ongoing commitment to advancing scientific research and empowering young scientists to make their mark.