Pitt Alzheimer’s Researcher Receives Zaven Khachaturian Award
By: Mattie Winowitch
The Alzheimer’s Association recently recognized Dr. William E. Klunk with the 2017 Zaven Khachaturian Award. The award was presented during this year’s Alzheimer’s Association International Conference in London.
Klunk was recognized for his many contributions to Alzheimer’s research, including his influential work in regards to amyloid imaging, which is used to diagnose Alzheimer’s. His group’s initial work remains the most frequently cited research article in the field of Alzheimer’s disease neuroimaging since its publication in 2004.
Named in honor of noted scientist, administrator, consultant, lecturer and author, Dr. Zaven Khachaturian, the award recognizes an individual whose compelling vision, selfless dedication and extraordinary achievement has significantly advanced the field of Alzheimer science.
Dr. Maria C. Carrillo, chief science officer for the Alzheimer’s Association, said Klunk’s excellent work earned him the award.
“Dr. Klunk’s contributions to Alzheimer’s disease research have changed not only how we understand the disease today, but have been the harbinger of an era of prevention of Alzheimer’s based on this knowledge,” Carrillo said. “His work enabling amyloid imaging in the human brain has been transformational for the field of Alzheimer’s research. He is a tireless and dedicated researcher who is advancing our understanding of Alzheimer’s at the earliest stages.”
Klunk is a Distinguished Professor of Psychiatry and Neurology and the Levidow-Pittsburgh Foundation Chair in Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Disorders at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. He is also the co-director of the Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center at Pitt, and the director of the Laboratory of Molecular Neuropharmacology at Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic.
The Alzheimer’s Association recently recognized Dr. William E. Klunk with the 2017 Zaven Khachaturian Award. The award was presented during this year’s Alzheimer’s Association International Conference in London.
