Prof. Jan Potempa, a microbiologist and biochemist from the Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology at the Jagiellonian University in Krakow, received the Heisig Prize for discovering the biochemical mechanisms of the relationship between bacterial periodontal diseases and autoimmune reactions, which opened up new perspectives in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease.

The Heisig Prize, awarded for the first time, is to honor Polish scientists who conduct research at the highest level, and whose discoveries change the world. This year it was awarded for the first time. Candidates were selected by the senates of the best Polish universities participating in the Initiative of Excellence – Research University program.

Prof. Jan Potempa is the head of the Department of Microbiology at the Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology of the Jagiellonian University and a professor of the University of Louisville (USA).  Prof. Potempa received the award, including a medal and a check for 200,000. PLN, during the inauguration of the academic year at the University of Wrocław.