IFF Honors Leading Scientists Advancing Nutrition, Health and Biosciences
IFF, a global leader in flavors, fragrances, food ingredients, and health and biosciences, has announced the recipients of its 2025 IFF Science Awards, recognizing two distinguished researchers whose work is transforming the understanding of human health, nutrition, and antimicrobial science.
The honorees are Dr. Carles Lerín of the Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu in Barcelona, Spain, and Professor Jan Maarten van Dijl of the University Medical Center Groningen (UMCG) in the Netherlands. Both are being recognized for groundbreaking contributions that exemplify IFF’s mission to advance science for a healthier, more sustainable world.
The IFF Science Awards celebrate outstanding achievements in areas central to the company’s innovation strategy — including food, microbiome research, the health, biocatalysis, and sustainability. This year’s honorees were selected through a rigorous evaluation process involving IFF’s R&D leaders, technical fellows, and previous award laureates.
Breakthrough innovation thrives on collaboration. By partnering with world-class scientists and institutions, we accelerate the development of sustainable solutions that benefit our customers and the communities we serve,” said Casper Vroemen, Chief R&D Officer at IFF. “It’s a privilege to honor two exceptional researchers whose pioneering work embodies the spirit of scientific advancement and global partnership.
Advancing Human Nutrition and Metabolic Health
Dr. Carles Lerín, principal investigator at the Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu and faculty member at the University of Vic – Central University of Catalonia (UVic-UCC), is recognized for his pioneering research at the intersection of human nutrition, metabolism, and early-life health.
Dr. Lerín’s work focuses on understanding how childhood and adolescent the influences long-term metabolic outcomes. His studies explore the connections between maternal and early-life nutrition, the gut microbiome, and the risk of obesity and metabolic disease. By integrating molecular biology with clinical research, his work has illuminated the intricate biological pathways that link diet, microbial composition, and lifelong health.
One of Dr. Lerín’s major contributions involves his research on betaine, a naturally occurring compound with important roles in cellular metabolism. His findings have shed light on how betaine supports gut integrity and metabolic balance, with implications for improving nutrition and resilience during critical developmental stages.
Beyond his research, Dr. Lerín is also known for his commitment to scientific mentorship and education. He has guided numerous young scientists and fosters strong collaborations across academia and industry. His interdisciplinary approach and dedication to real-world impact have made him a respected figure in and health science worldwide.
Dr. Lerín’s work exemplifies how science can bridge fundamental biology and practical health solutions,” said Vroemen. “His discoveries are helping us better understand how nutrition during early life shapes long-term well-being — knowledge that can inform innovations in food and health products designed for future generations.
Breakthroughs in Antimicrobial Research
Professor Jan Maarten van Dijl, a leading molecular bacteriologist at UMCG, is being honored for his pioneering research on microbial protein secretion and host-pathogen interactions — areas critical to understanding infectious diseases and combating antibiotic resistance.
Prof. van Dijl’s work has significantly advanced the field of molecular microbiology, particularly through his exploration of how bacteria secrete proteins and interact with human hosts. His innovative methods have opened new avenues for developing antimicrobial strategies at a time when global health systems are grappling with rising antibiotic resistance.
His research has led to insights into bacterial communication, immune evasion, and the mechanisms that underlie pathogen survival. By integrating molecular biology with applied biotechnology, Prof. van Dijl’s discoveries contribute to the global effort to develop safer, more effective antimicrobial treatments.
In addition to his scientific achievements, Prof. van Dijl is celebrated for his collaborative approach, working with researchers across Europe and beyond to translate laboratory findings into solutions with clinical and industrial relevance.
Professor van Dijl’s contributions are reshaping how we think about bacterial behavior and infection control,” said Vroemen. “His research supports one of today’s most urgent scientific challenges — the fight against antimicrobial resistance — and reinforces the power of innovation through partnership.
Continuing a Legacy of Scientific Excellence
The IFF Science Awards trace their origins to the Danisco Foundation, established in 1981 to support research in food science, nutrition, and health. Following IFF’s acquisition of Danisco, the awards have continued under the IFF banner, maintaining a legacy of promoting scientific inquiry and recognizing excellence in research that drives real-world progress.
Over the years, the awards have honored scientists whose work has expanded knowledge in areas vital to global well-being — from microbiome science and to sustainable food technologies and biocatalysis.
This year’s award includes a $35,000 prize shared among the honorees, underscoring IFF’s commitment to supporting breakthrough research that aligns with its sustainability and innovation goals.
The recipients were chosen through a multi-stage selection process. Nominations were reviewed by a panel of IFF’s internal scientific community — including technical fellows, research leaders, and past laureates — who evaluated candidates based on the originality, impact, and societal relevance of their work.
IFF (NYSE: IFF) is a global leader in food, beverage, health, biosciences, and sensorial experiences, creating essential solutions that nourish the world and improve lives. With a broad portfolio spanning flavors, fragrances, enzymes, cultures, and active health ingredients, IFF partners with customers to develop innovations that meet growing global demand for health, wellness, and sustainability.
