The Adolphe Merkle Institute’s Co-Chair of BioNanomaterials, Prof. Barbara Rothen-Rutishauser, has been recognized with the International Society for Aerosols in Medicine (ISAM) Juraj Ferin Award at the ISAM congress 2025 in Washington, DC. It is given to society members who have made outstanding contributions to ISAM.

The award also recognizes explicitly excellence in medicinal aerosols and inhalable materials, as well as commitment to advancing the ISAM’s mission and goals. It is named after Juraj Ferin, a scientist and medical professional recognized for his contributions to the field of aerosols in medicine. His scientific work focused on pulmonary clearance after aerosol deposition and alveolar dust clearance. This distinction honors his legacy and impact on the field and ISAM.

Rothen-Rutishauser was previously recognized as an ISAM Fellow in 2023. She is an expert in the field of cell-nanoparticle interactions, with a special focus on 3D tissue models. Her work includes the development of alternative testing methods that can be used for hazard assessments and drug testing approaches.

Since 2011, she has been the Co-Chair of BioNanomaterials at the Adolphe Merkle Institute, a position shared equally with Prof. Alke Fink. Rothen-Rutishauser, a member of the Swiss National Science Foundation’s Research Council, is also a past president of the ISAM and has served on multiple international and national advisory committees, including Switzerland’s Federal Commission for Air Hygiene.

The ISAM is a central hub for professionals involved in aerosol medicine and pulmonary drug delivery. The organization facilitates knowledge sharing and professional development through various initiatives, including annual congresses and webinars.