The Torgny H. Svensson Award– to promote Scandinavian research in neuropsychopharmacology
At the initiative of Torgny's former PhD students and colleagues, a scientific prize has been initiated in Torgny's honor, the Torgny H. Svensson Award. The prize is awarded during the SCNP's annual conference where the recipient of the prize is offered to give a scientific lecture.
On June 12th, 2020, Professor Torgny H. Svensson passed away due to covid-19. In Torgny's memory, the Torgny H. Svensson Award foundation has been established.
One of the foundation's initiators is Sophie Erhardt, Professor at the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology and President of the Scandinavian College of Neuropsychopharmacology (SCNP).
Sophie Erhardt, tell us about The Torgny H. Svensson Award?
– The prize was created on the initiative of Torgny's former PhD students in collaboration with the Board of Directors of the SCNP. The aim is to promote Scandinavian research in neuropsychopharmacology in the spirit that characterized Torgny's scientific thinking.
Why did you initiate the foundation?
– Torgny was a great authority that, in a rational way, brought neuropsychopharmacology forward into the world. He had a huge network of contacts both within academia and international pharmaceutical companies. His ideas, many inspired by his mentor, Nobel Laureate Arvid Carlsson, have made a big impression in today's treatment of psychiatric disorders. Torgny was President of SCNP for 6 years and fundamentally changed the organization. From being a small Scandinavian company of about 50-100 participants, he changed the language to English (from Scandinavian) and managed to attract over 700 participants to the congress.
How will the prize be awarded?
– The award will be announced at the annual SCNP conference, and the recipient will be invited to give a lecture. The next congress is scheduled for June 2nd- 3rd, 2021, in Stockholm. The idea is that the price should be recurring annually.