The winner is chosen by an independent jury of Institut de France; Fondation Mérieux submits the candidates for selection identified on the ground.
This prize is dedicated to:
- Aiding research into infectious diseases in developing countries;
- To reward research teams working permantely in these coutries.
This distinction offers international recognition to volunteers and allows to accelerate and support the work through financial aid. The Christophe Mérieux Prize 2010 was awarded to Dr. Jean-William Pape, Director and founder of the GHESKIO Centres.
The prize of 500,000 Euros given by Fondation Christophe et Rodolphe Mérieux will reward Dr. Pape for his considerable contribution to public health in Haiti and in particular, his research in the fight against AIDS, with the creation in 1983, of GHESKIO. The Fondation also wishes to help Dr. Pape continue his action and important research work.