We are thrilled to announce that Julian Better has been honored with the prestigious „von Behring-Röntgen Nachwuchspreis” for his groundbreaking research on the role of alveolar macrophages in resolving lung inflammation following acute lung injury.
The „von Behring-Röntgen Stiftung”, a staunch supporter of medical research and education at Justus Liebig University Giessen and Philipps University Marburg, has fostered over 150 biomedical projects through its 18 funding rounds, amounting to a staggering €26 million. Since 2009, the foundation has been recognizing outstanding young scientists with the „von Behring-Röntgen Nachwuchspreis”, and this year, for the first time, with the „Klaus and Christa Preissner-Innovationspreis“.
In a solemn ceremony held in the main hall of the Justus Liebig University Giessen on November 25, 2025, Julian received this distinguished award, including a €10,000 prize, for his exceptional contributions to biomedical science. The event was a celebration of innovative minds, with over 100 guests in attendance, including dignitaries from politics, academia, and the local community. The inspiring mood was beautifully set by the JLU Giessen String Quartet, playing captivating renditions of „Cold Play“ and „Pirates of the Caribbean“.
Julian’s remarkable work, published in the esteemed journal “Science Immunology”, sheds light on how alveolar macrophages – specialized immune cells in the lung alveoli – reprogram in response to acute lung damage, such as that caused by viral infections or gastric acid aspiration. His findings reveal that these immune cells shift their focus towards resolving inflammation but, in doing so, become less effective at fighting bacteria.
These insights offer a deeper understanding of why patients are often more susceptible to bacterial infections following acute lung injury and pave the way for innovative immune cell-based therapies that can dampen inflammation without compromising immune defense. Julian’s research not only advances our knowledge of lung immunology but also holds tremendous potential for therapeutic translation.
This well-deserved recognition is not just an honor but also a catalyst, inspiring to continue pushing the boundaries of biomedical research.
Heartfelt gratitude goes to Julian’s mentors, PD Dr. Ulrich Matt and Prof. Dr. Susanne Herold, for their unwavering support, inspiration, and guidance. Their dedication has been instrumental in creating the exceptional scientific environment that enabled Julian’s work to flourish.
Photographer: Christian Stein
Courtesy: “von Behring-Röntgen Stiftung”
