Dr Esther Sammler, Group Leader in the MRC Protein Phosphorylation and Ubiquitylation Unit (MRC PPU) at the University of Dundee and Honorary Consultant Neurologist at NHS Tayside, has received the prestigious 2026 Tom Isaacs Award.
Presented jointly by Cure Parkinson’s and Van Andel Institute, the international award recognises researchers whose work makes a meaningful difference to people living with Parkinson’s and who actively involve the patient community in their research. It honours the memory of Tom Isaacs, co-founder of Cure Parkinson’s and a passionate advocate for researchers and patients working together towards a cure.
Esther’s research connects discoveries about the molecular causes of Parkinson’s with studies in patients. Her team develops methods to measure the activity of disease-associated pathways directly in clinical samples, helping researchers understand how these pathways differ between individuals and assess the effects of potential treatments.
Alongside her laboratory research, Esther leads clinical trials of potential Parkinson’s therapies at Ninewells Hospital. She also works closely with people affected by Parkinson’s, including through the Parkinson’s UK Dundee Research Interest Group, to ensure that their experiences and priorities inform her research.
The award was announced as a surprise at the end of Esther’s virtual presentation at the Rallying to the Challenge symposium at Van Andel Institute.
Helen Matthews CEO of Cure Parkinson's said:
“We are delighted to present the Tom Isaacs Award for 2026 to Esther. In both her consultant neurologist and researcher roles she has shown an outstanding commitment to bettering the lives of those affected by Parkinson’s. Esther has also shown a real dedication to the Parkinson’s community beyond her day-to-day roles, working with Parkinson’s community and advocacy groups and charities, as well as mentoring junior colleagues. We are truly thrilled to celebrate Esther’s incredible work and commitment to the Parkinson’s community with this award.”
Esther said: “I am absolutely delighted to receive the Tom Isaacs Award. It means so much to me because it recognises the importance of working alongside people living with Parkinson's. Dundee is a special place to do this work - here we can bring basic science, clinical care, translational research and clinical trials together, working closely with the Parkinson's community and with collaborators around the world. I'm grateful to all my colleagues, to Dario Alessi for his mentorship, and to everyone who nominated and supported me, and I'd like to thank Helen Matthews and everyone at Cure Parkinson's for this honour. Above all, I want to thank those who take part in our research and clinical trials - their trust and commitment mean an enormous amount to me.”
Professor Dario Alessi, Director of the MRC PPU, said:
“Having worked closely with Esther for many years, I am delighted to see her receive this very well-deserved recognition. Esther has a remarkable ability to connect detailed laboratory discoveries with the questions that matter to people living with Parkinson’s. Her pioneering research, leadership of clinical trials and close partnership with patients reflect her determination to turn a better understanding of the disease into better treatments. We are all very proud of her.”
Everyone at the MRC PPU warmly congratulates Esther on this achievement.