John Maddox: A tireless champion and defender of science.
Nominations are open for the annual John Maddox Prize for Standing up for Science. The award recognises an individual who has promoted sound science and evidence on a matter of public interest.
Last year saw more than 100 members of the scientific community gather at the Royal Pharmaceutical Society to congratulate Professor David Nutt. The former UK government chief drugs adviser was awarded the international prize as recognition for his courage in promoting science and evidence, despite facing difficulty of hostility in doing so.
The prize, now in its third year, is a joint initiative of Nature, the Kohn Foundation, and the charity Sense About Science. Sir John Maddox, former editor of Nature for 22 years, whose name the prize commemorates, was a passionate and tireless champion and defender of science, engaging with difficult debates and inspiring others to do the same.
On winning the award in 2013, Professor Nutt, said: “Science is arguably the defining characteristic of humanity. It therefore is imperative that scientists play their full role in all aspects of human life. Being awarded this prize gives me the confidence to continue to do what’s right, and hopefully will inspire others to follow suit.”