Honorary Doctorates

Practicing physician in Bern, Director of Inselspital, Bern

In recognition of his services to the medical faculty and teaching at Inselspital.

Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, Professor of Comparative Anatomy and Physiology, University of Lyon, Director of the Veterinary School in Lyon

1884

Abbe, Ernst
1840 - 1905

Doctor of Philosophy, professor of mathematics and physics, University of Jena, co-owner, later sole owner of Carl Zeiss Works

1884

Ladenburg, Albert
1842 – 1911

Dr. phil., Professor of Chemistry, University of Kiel

For his careful investigation of plant toxins and their artificial production by synthetic means, which will be of particular benefit to future medicine.

1884 

Flückiger, Friedrich August
1828 – 1894

Doctor of Philosophy, Professor of Pharmacy, Director of the Pharmaceutical Institute, University of Strasbourg

He rendered great service to medicine through his scholarly writings on pharmacology and his meticulous lectures on the subject in Bern and Strasbourg.

1884 

Tollin, Henri Wilhelm Nathanael
1833 – 1902 

Licentiate of Theology, preacher in Magdeburg, researcher into the life and work of Michel Servet

For his thorough historical research on Harvey and his predecessors, and for his fearless application of scientific principles to practical life.

1884 

Kummer, Johann Jakob
1828 - 1913

Dr. phil. h. c. (Bern 1873), Director of Education for the Canton of Bern 1862-1873, Head of the Federal Statistical Office, Bern

For the careful composition of a series of writings relating to public health care, which include thorough studies on mortality statistics and the alcohol issue.

1862 

Bringolf, Johann Adam
1787 - 1862

Doctor of Medicine, practicing physician in Schaffhausen

The elderly, distinguished physician, who was universally revered and remained tirelessly active until recently, studied at the local academy in 1810 and 1811.

1859 

Müller, Leonhard Christian
1816 - 1881 

PD for Pharmacy and Toxicology, University of Bern

According to the unanimous opinion of medical students, he has proven himself to be a diligent and excellent teacher of pharmaceutical chemistry and pharmacognosy for many years. His paper on milk samples has also earned him a certain literary reputation. Through his frequent and popular lectures in the Grand Council Chamber and the Museum, which were always received with lively applause, he has contributed significantly to the scientific advancement of the public. Mr. Müller has rendered outstanding services to public health through his numerous expert reports on counterfeit food and beverages.

Cohn, Edwin Josef 
1892 – 1953 

Professor of Biochemistry, Harvard University Medical School, Cambridge (Mass.), USA

In recognition of his great services in elucidating the chemical behavior of proteins and in special appreciation of the work that led to the purification of human plasma proteins and provided clinicians with a valuable new tool in the fight against disease.

1945 

Oeri, Albert
1875 – 1950

Editor-in-chief of the Basler Nachrichten, Basel

To the courageous and highly intelligent patriot whose considerable achievements and recognized efforts in the field of mental hygiene and resilience for our country during the war years 1939-1945.

1944 

Rollier, August
1874 – 1954

Doctor of Medicine, Chief Physician at the Leysin Mountain Clinic for Tuberculosis

The physician and surgeon who recognized local tuberculosis manifestations as symptoms of a general illness, whose life's work helped bring about a breakthrough in sun therapy, and who realized the basic principles of social biology through the harmonious combination of physical, psychological, and occupational therapy.

1942 

Stoll, Arthur
1887 – 1971

Dr. rer. nat., Professor of Chemistry, Director of the Pharmaceutical Department, Sandoz, Basel

To the researcher who has made an extraordinary contribution to the chemistry of medicinal plants, who has discovered new methods for isolating valuable components from drugs and, with their help, has isolated important medicinal substances from plants and made them available to medicine; to the outstanding chemist who has decisively promoted research into the constitution of important plant-based medicinal substances.

1941 

Feller, Richard
1877 – 1958

Dr. phil., Professor of Swiss History, University of Bern

To the man to whom the Faculty of Medicine owes an exemplary account of its first century and who, in his life's work, which seems particularly worthy of recognition in this year of Bernese and Swiss commemorations, has rendered outstanding services to the study of our country's history.

Schiller, Heinrich
1864 – 1945

Doctor of Medicine, Director of the Wil SG Psychiatric Hospital

As the creator of groundbreaking work therapy, organizer of the mental health care system, and pioneer in the fight against alcohol abuse in Switzerland.

Carrière, Henri
1865 – 1941

Doctor of Medicine, Director of the Federal Office of Public Health, Bern

In recognition of his services to the promotion of public health in Switzerland over 40 years of successful work in administration, legislation, and international cooperation.

1934 

Lapicque, Louis
1866 – 1952

Doctor of Medicine and Philosophy, Professor of Physiology, Sorbonne, Paris

Recognized the paramount importance of time for excitation in his profound work and created new, precise methods for examining the nervous system in medical science.

1934 

Lohner, Emil
1865 – 1959

Former member of the cantonal government of Bern, director of the Central Office for International Rail Transport in Bern

In recognition of his services in expanding clinics and institutes and promoting medical education.

1934 

Naegeli, Otto
1871 – 1938

Doctor of Medicine, Professor of Internal Medicine, Director of the Medical Clinic, University of Zurich

To the successful biologist, the scientifically minded physician, and the synthesizer of great style.

Euler, Chelpin Johann von
1873 – 1964

Ph.D., Professor of Biochemistry, Stockholm University

The profound expert and promoter of fermentation science, the successful researcher of vitamins.

1933 

Senn, Gustav Alfred
1875 – 1945

Dr. phil., Professor of Botany, University of Basel

For his outstanding biological studies in high mountains and for his fundamental work on the biological research methods used by naturalists and physicians in ancient times.

1932 

König, Emil
1871 – 1948

Dr. phil., Director of the Federal Office of Weights and Measures, Bern

To the successful promoter of the scientific and theoretical application of physics in medicine, the creator of the precise method for measuring the quantity and quality of X-rays. 

1931 

Sherrington, Charles Scott, Sir
1857 – 1952

Doctor of Medicine, Professor of Physiology, University of Oxford, Nobel Prize 1932

With his comprehensive and subtle studies of the nerves, in which he revealed a wealth of new insights and approaches, he laid a solid foundation for the anatomy, physiology and clinical practice of neurology through his highly fruitful laws and unique terminology.

1931 

Cushing, Harvey Williams
1869 – 1939

MD, Professor of Neurosurgery, Harvard University Medical School, Cambridge (Mass.), USA

For the rich contributions he has made through his fundamental experimental and clinical research and through the outstanding training in surgical techniques during a lifetime of surgery on the central nervous system.

1927 

Küster, William
1863 – 1929

Dr. phil., Professor of Chemistry, Stuttgart University of Applied Sciences

In recognition of his outstanding research into blood pigments, which he has pursued with tenacious perseverance and great success for a generation, thereby rendering outstanding services to medicine.

1912 

Heger, Paul
1846 – 1925

Dr. med., Prof. of Physiology, University of Brussels

1911

Lingner, Karl August
1861 – 1916

Privy Councilor, owner of Lingnerwerke AG Dresden, initiator of the International Hygiene Exhibition, Dresden

1910 

Sharpey-Schäfer, Edward A., Sir
1850 – 1935

Dr. med., Prof. of Physiology, University of Edinburgh 

1907 

Tschirch, Alexander
1856 – 1939

Doctor of Philosophy, Professor of Pharmacognosy, Pharmaceutical and Forensic Chemistry, University of Bern

In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the Pharmakopoea helv. editio quarta, his many years of service to the faculty, and his contributions to the creation of the Haller monument.

1903 

Stooss, Carl
1849 – 1934

Doctor of Law, Professor of Criminal Law, University of Vienna 

Sackett, David Lawrence
1934

Prof. Dr. med. Epidemiology, Universität, Oxford, England

The researcher, thought leader and contributor to the systematic evaluation of clinical research literature, whose methods facilitate the targeted translation of clinical research findings into everyday practice and clinical practice and improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the healthcare system

Carmeliet, Edward Emiel
1930

Prof. Dr. med. of Physiology University of Leuven, Belgium

With his contributions to the alteration of the electrical function of the heart during disturbances of energy metabolism and cardiac rhythm, he has built an important bridge between basic research and clinical medicine; for four decades he has been able, with great personal commitment and originality, to promote knowledge about the functioning of the molecules and ion movements whose complex interactions lead to the electrical excitation of the heart.

1995 

Nüscheler, Fritz
1919 - 1999

Dr. jur., Central Secretary of the Swiss Association for the Integration of the Disabled

To the far-sighted pioneer and co-designer of numerous rehabilitation institutions, who, as a selfless advocate for physically or intellectually disabled people, has tirelessly made significant contributions to improving their quality of life, their legal status and their economic situation.

1993 

Mühlbauer, Roman C.
1943

Biology laboratory technician, employee of the Institute of Pathophysiology, University of Berne
To the promoter of the understanding of bone and calcium phosphate metabolism, in recognition of his own scientific contribution and his tireless commitment to communicating nutrition-oriented specialist knowledge to a broad public.

1992 

Meng, Walter
1915 - 1997

Dr. med., FMH specialist in surgery; President of the Inter-Association (IVR) for Rescue Services
To the pioneer of a modern rescue system in Switzerland, who, with outstanding expertise and based on his experience as a doctor in a large accident practice, with knowledge of the federal structure of the healthcare system and the difficulties of intercantonal regulations, significantly promoted the coordination of public and private rescue services through standardized guidelines and who rendered great services to improving the training of rescue personnel and the equipment of rescue facilities as well as to the introduction of the emergency medical call system.

1992 

Köng, Elsbeth
1921

Dr. med., Head of the Center for Cerebral Movement Disorders at Inselspital Bern
To the pediatrician and pioneer in the modern care of physically handicapped children, who, with tireless commitment and great expertise, brought the Bobath method of treatment to international recognition and thus made a significant contribution to the early detection and early treatment of children with cerebral movement disorders.

1991 

Boszormenyi-Nagy, Ivan
1921

Prof. Dr. med., Hahnemann University, Philadelphia, Penn., USA
The intelligent pioneer and researcher of family relationships, who was able to integrate both intergenerational ties and the ethical obligations of families in an independent treatment model, Contextual Therapy.

1990 

Clements, John Allen
1923

Prof. Dr. med., School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, Cal., USA
To the eminent scientist who, through astute research, discovered the nature and special properties of the surface-active lining of the human lung, and thereby provided the decisive insights for understanding the stable unfolding of the alveoli, who through incessant research has developed methods that give hope for successful treatment of the threatening respiratory distress of the premature infant.

1989 

Sutter, Franz
1930

Graduate precision mechanic, head designer at Straumann AG, Waldenburg
To the tireless inventor and designer of surgical aids that allow doctors and dentists to help many patients to make their lives more worth living again.

1988

Cigada, Celestino
1925 - 1999

Precision mechanic, Institute of Physiology, University of Berne
Celestino Cigada, the inventive precision mechanic, who for more than 30 years has played a notable role in the design and development of experimental and measuring devices for research into life processes at cellular and sub-cellular level; who, confronted with a wide variety of technical problems, repeatedly finds solutions that he is able to translate into sophisticated precision apparatus.

1988 

Spoerri, Elka
1924 – 2002 

Art historian, Kunstmuseum Bern
The art historian who for over 20 years has taken exemplary care of the estate of the schizophrenic Bernese artist Adolf Wölfli and has made his work known worldwide through publications, lectures and exhibitions; who contributes to shedding light on the nature of creativity at the boundaries between health and illness, medicine and art history, the natural sciences and the humanities.

1987 

Spinnler, Kurt
1918 – 2001

Dipl. Mechanical Engineer ETH, retired Director of Vereinigte Rheinsalinen, Rheinfelden
To the tireless promoter of iodization and fluorination of table salt and thus the successful fight against goitre and tooth decay, the prudent pioneer of the intercantonal salt concordat, the liberalization of the Swiss salt trade and thus the optimal distribution of salt with prophylactic additives.

1986 

Burgdorfer, Willy
1925

Prof. Dr. phil. nat., Scientist Emeritus, Laboratory of Pathobiology, Rocky Mountain Laboratory, Hamilton, Mont., USA
The researcher of diseases transmitted to humans by blood-sucking arthropods and the discoverer of Borrelia burgdorferi, the causative agent of the worldwide spread tick-borne erythema migrans disease, a syphilis-like spirochete disease that affects various organ systems and causes severe polyarthritis and meningo-encephalitis.

1986 

Traber, Hans A.
1921 – 1986

Freelancer for Swiss television, journalist, freelance filmmaker, Zürich
To the committed speaker and creator of masterful films about life in nature, who knows how to awaken in the viewer an understanding of and responsibility towards the habitats that surround him and thus also makes a significant contribution to public health.

1985 

Nyman, Sture Rickard
1922 – 2002

Prof. Dr. med. dent., Faculty of Dentistry Gothenburg, Sweden
To the outstanding practitioner and scientist in the field of the biology of the masticatory system and the prevention and treatment of dental diseases, who has fundamentally investigated the regenerative potential of periodontal tissues in particular, to the inspiring teacher and generous colleague and to the selfless and tireless supporter of young Swiss clinicians and researchers in dentistry.

1984 

Blaschko, Hermann Karl Felix
1900 – 1993

Prof. Dr. med., Weiland Professor of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, England
To the important researcher in the field of biogenic amines, the pioneer of biochemical pharmacology and the co-creator and witness of major scientific developments and discoveries of our century.

1983 

Stich, Hermann
1925

Technical Assistant at the Clinic for Dental Conservation, University of Bern
In recognition of his imaginative and selfless experimental, histological and microphotographic support of numerous research groups and young doctoral students, and in appreciation of his own scientific contributions to dentistry and its border areas.

1983 

Keller, Max
1919 – 2003

First Secretary of the Department of Education of the Canton of Berne
To the prudent promoter of university causes who, thanks to his unwavering sincerity and great foresight, shaped the development of the Faculty of Medicine and the entire university in an atmosphere of mutual trust for two decades.

1982 

Trösch, Fritz
1907 – 1992 

Primary school teacher, retired director of the Bernese sanatorium for alcoholic men, Kirchlindach BE
To the tireless promoter of prevention, care and aftercare for people at risk of addiction and addicts, who, as the longstanding director of the "Nüchtern" sanatorium for alcoholic men in Kirchlindach and as a member of cantonal and federal commissions, gained professional recognition beyond the country's borders, who sought to implement his own concepts in the care of addicts, who was significantly involved in the training of caregivers and who, through the organization of the "Aeschi Teaching Courses", put human, pharmacological, institutional and legal aspects of the problem of addiction up for discussion.

1982 

Wood, Earl Howard
1912

Prof. Dr. med. Emeritus Professor of Physiology, University of Rochester, Minn., USA
To the physiologist who used original methods to measure the influence of increased gravitational acceleration on the blood circulation and on the blood supply to the human brain, the tireless researcher on the way to three-dimensional radiological imaging of the movement of the heart and lungs.

1982 

Frey, Ulrich
1918 – 2006 

Dr. med., Director of the Federal Office of Public Health, Berne
The promoter of preventive medicine and health protection, the promoter of new concepts in the training of medical personnel, the successful representative of Swiss interests in international health policy.

1981 

Hürny, Theo A.
1909 – 1984 

Dr. med. dent., Dentist in Bern

The pioneer of preventive dentistry, who recognized early on in his practice that the problem of dental disease can only be solved through prevention.

1981 

Rahn, Hermann
1912 – 1990

Dr. med., Professor of Physiology, State University of New York, Buffalo, N. Y., USA

To the teacher and researcher who has developed fundamental insights into respiratory function in humans and animals, particularly in relation to environmental conditions, thereby making a significant contribution to the foundations of clinical medicine and shaping global training in respiratory physiology through his example.

1981 

Meyer-Salzmann, Marta
1913 – 2006 

Author of works on medical history, Zurich

An enthusiastic researcher of medical history in the Bernese Oberland, who, through tireless independent study, has masterfully researched and described the life and work of Michel Schüpbach, a surgeon from Langnau, and made the medical and cultural heritage of the Emmental region accessible to a wider audience.

1980 

Kohler, François
1920 

Dr. jur., Director of the Inselspital, Bern

In managing Inselspital, François Kohler placed great importance on partnership with the canton of Bern and collaboration with the university, doctors, nursing staff, administrative staff, and technical personnel. As a globally recognized hospital specialist, he created the ideal conditions for providing personalized care to patients and the best possible conditions for medical teaching and research.

1980 

Engel George Libman
1913 – 1999

Prof. Dr. med., Professor Emeritus of Internal Medicine and Psychiatry, University of Rochester, Minn., USA

A pioneer in teaching and research who promoted a holistic understanding of sick people, thereby exerting a significant influence on the younger generation of doctors in various countries.

1979 

Giebisch, Gerhard Hans
1927 

Dr. med., Prof. of Physiology, Yale University, New Haven, Conn., USA

The physiologist who used innovative methods to study the movement of salts and water in the kidneys, who in particular clarified the regulatory processes involved in maintaining a constant potassium concentration in blood plasma, and who has felt closely connected to our faculty for many years.

1979 

Hunziker, Heinrich
1879 – 1982 

Doctor of Medicine, retired practicing physician

His research deepened understanding of the links between iodine deficiency and endemic goiter, and he played a key role in Switzerland becoming the first country in the world to introduce iodized salt as a preventive measure against endemic goiter.

1978 

Kretchmer, Norman
1923 – 1995 

Prof. Dr. med., Director of the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, Md., USA

The physician and researcher who developed fundamental scientific findings in developmental biology, enabled their application in practical medicine, and thereby promoted understanding of the causes and effects of developmental disorders in children, which is a prerequisite for their prevention and cure.

1978 

Orelli, Eduard von
1913 – 1999

Doctor of Chemistry, former head of the medical corps, retired colonel in the general staff, Bern

The military instructor who, through his personal commitment, trained generations of medical officers over many years, organized the further training of military doctors in military medicine and disaster relief, and played a decisive role in shaping the concept for the implementation of a coordinated medical service covering the entire country.

1978 

Monnier, Willy
1909 – 1981

Dr. jur. h. c., retired accountant at the Directorate General of Customs in Bern

The tireless and selfless helper who succeeded in creating a foundation dedicated to combating leprosy; the committed citizen who always took great care to ensure that donations collected by federal employees reached those who urgently needed our help; the philanthropist who, in the spirit of Dr. Albert Schweizer, helped to expand the leprosy station and treatment center in Lambarene, a relief organization with which the University of Bern feels a special connection through the work of its assistants and students.

1977 

Hadorn-Schläfli, Gertrud
1897 – 1985 

Advocate, founder of the home care and home help organization of the Canton of Bern

The creator of home care and home help organizations in the city and canton of Bern, the energetic promoter of housing developments for people in need of care and the elderly, who, with her selfless, beneficial work at home and abroad, has made an exemplary and commendable contribution to alleviating the often hidden hardships of sick, frail, and lonely people, and whose life's work has brought about significant improvements in public welfare and health care.

1977 

Naef, Ulrich
1918 – 2003 

Lic. jur., Assistant Secretary General of the Swiss Medical Association FMH

A lawyer who has been dealing with medical issues with exceptional dedication and energy for more than three decades, actively addressing the concerns of the Swiss Medical Association, student education and continuing medical education, thereby providing significant impetus for solving the serious problems facing the public health system, and for whom reform and coordination efforts in the field of medical student education are a genuine personal concern.

1976 

Fleury, Käthi
1919 

Nurse, head of a leprosy clinic in Kathmandu

The nurse and development aid worker who fought against social misery and the isolation of lepers in Nepal and enabled numerous children of leprous parents to receive schooling, vocational training, and thus social integration.

1976 

Ackerknecht, Erwin Heinz
1906 – 1988 

Emeritus Professor of Medical History, University of Zurich

To the outstanding researcher and teacher of medical history, who has made a decisive contribution to the knowledge and understanding of the trial-and-error development of the fight against disease.

1975 

Ash, Major McKinley
1921 

Prof. Dr. med. dent., University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Mich. USA

To the selfless, outstanding teacher and scientist in the field of physiology and pathophysiology of the masticatory system, and the tireless promoter of young Swiss researchers in dentistry.

1974

Mathys, Robert
1921 – 2000 

Design engineer, mechanic, and owner of Mathys in Bettlach, Canton of Solothurn

Robert Mathys did not shy away from risking his economic livelihood by spending years working on the technical realization of a uniform set of bone surgery instruments, thereby enabling the clinical application of basic research conducted by doctors for the benefit of patients. With his original technical solutions, Mr. Mathys has made a significant contribution to the worldwide recognition and use of these instruments.

1974 

Weber, Walter
1927 – 2007 

Preparator at the Anatomical Institute, University of Bern

To the expert in anatomical and histological methods, who through self-study has worked his way up to become an outstanding teacher of anatomy and, through his dedicated commitment, has earned the respect and admiration of his students.

1973 

Bohren-Hoerni, Margrit
1917 – 1995 

Dr. jur., Director of the Swiss Volksdienst Association, Zurich

The long-standing director of the Swiss Volksdienst Association, who, through the implementation of progressive ideas and the practical application of scientific findings, has helped many employees and students to enjoy healthy communal catering, thereby making a valuable contribution to the promotion of public health.

1972 

Töndury, Gian
1906 – 1985 

Prof. Dr. med., Director of the Anatomical Institute, University of Zurich

In recognition of his exemplary and tireless commitment as a teacher and, in particular, his constant efforts to redesign anatomy teaching and integrate it into a human biology curriculum, through which he has made groundbreaking contributions to the reform of medical studies.

1971 

Søndergaard, Tyge
1914 – 1990 

Prof. Dr. med., Head of the Thoracic Surgery Clinic, Aarhus University, Denmark

To the founder and tireless promoter of open heart surgery in Bern, the creator of ingenious and gentle new surgical procedures in the field of cardiac surgery, the exemplary physician.

1971 

Lauener, Paul
1887 – 1983 

Doctor of Medicine, former school doctor for the city of Bern

For his constructive work as school doctor for the city of Bern, for his fundamental work on the physical and mental development of young people, for his preventive medical work in combating goiter and tuberculosis, and for his significant contributions to the Red Cross, the “Ferien und Freizeit” association for young people at Pro Juventute, and Pro Infirmis.

1969 

Katchalsky (Katzir-), Aharon
1914 – 1972 

Prof. Dr. med., Dr. phil., Director of the Polymer Department, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovoth, Israel

Who, through his work on polyelectrolyte solutions, has created important models for biological processes, deepened our understanding of biological transport through the construction and interpretation of physicochemical transport systems, and, by introducing the thermodynamics of irreversible processes, has provided biologists working on transport issues with an important tool for interpreting the phenomena they observe.

1969 

König, Fritz
1900 – 1978 

Doctor of Medicine, President of the Swiss Medical Association FMH, Lyss

In recognition of his many years of tireless and prudent service to the Swiss medical profession and his efforts to maintain a free, conscientious, and socially open medical profession, to promote medical education, and to foster fruitful cooperation between scientific and practical activities.

1968 

Schneider, Max
1904 – 1979 

Doctor of Medicine, Professor of Physiology, Director of the Physiological Institute, University of Cologne

To the outstanding researcher in the field of blood supply to the brain. To the distinguished teacher who, with unflagging enthusiasm, made the latest findings in physiology accessible to doctors and medical students in both spoken and written form, who spent his youth in Bern and always remained loyal to our city.

1968 

Palade, George Emil
1912 

Professor of Cell Biology at Rockefeller University, New York Nobel Prize 1974

To the pioneer of electron microscopic cytology, who made the world of cell ultrastructure accessible and thus opened up a fruitful era of cell research with brilliant investigations into the structure and function of cells.

1967 

Bárány, Ernst
1910 

Prof. Dr. med., Director of the Institute of Pharmacology, Uppsala University

Who, through his brilliant physiological and pharmacological research, has significantly advanced our understanding of the fluid dynamics of the eye.

1967 

Beyeler, Otto
1902 – 1985 

Teacher, Managing Director of Berner Wanderwege

For 30 years as President of Berner Wanderwege, he has done profound work in the areas of organization, cartography, and publishing to make the beauty of the canton of Bern accessible to the public, inspiring enthusiasm for increased physical activity and thus making a significant contribution to public health.

1965 

Plattner, Placidus Andreas
1904 – 1975 

Prof. Dr. phil. nat., Head of Corporate Research at Hoffmann-La Roche & Co. AG, Basel

To whom medicine owes significant contributions to constitutional research and the synthesis of therapeutically important substances, and who continues to exert his influence in support of basic medical research and the promotion of young academics.

1964 

Kuffler, Stephen
1913 – 1980 

Robert Winthrop, Professor of Neurophysiology and Neuropharmacology, Harvard University Medical School, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA

To whom we owe a new approach to the nervous control of muscle contraction; who made the basic phenomena of spatial perception understandable by uncovering the organization of the receptive fields of the retina; who gave us new insights into the phenomenon of nervous inhibition.

1962 

Schultze, Hermann Eduard
1899 – 1985 

Dr. phil., Honorary Professor at the University of Marburg, Scientific Director of Behringwerke, Marburg

For his outstanding expertise in human blood proteins, enriching numerous trace proteins for the first time and characterizing them physicochemically and immunologically, thereby making a significant contribution to the diagnosis and treatment of blood protein disorders.

1961 

Leuthard, Franz
1903 – 1985 

Prof. Dr. phil., Director of the Biochemical Institute, University of Zurich

To the successful researcher and teacher who, through his work on fructose and the enzymes involved in sugar breakdown, has made valuable contributions to the understanding and treatment of metabolic diseases.

1960 

Wander, Georg
1898 – 1968 

Dr. sc. nat., President of Dr. A. Wander AG

In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the promotion of research and the creation of a memorial lecture series that brought guest lecturers to our university. His general interest in science has been reflected in his support for clinical research, which has benefited the entire field of medicine.

1959 

Hammer, Heinrich
1891 – 1972 

Doctor of Medicine, Doctor of Dental Medicine, Professor of Dentistry, University of Kiel, Doctor of Dental Medicine honoris causa

In recognition of his work on transplantation and implantation in the dental and maxillofacial region and numerous other areas of dentistry, oral and maxillofacial medicine.

1959 

Békésy, Georg von
1899 – 1972 

Prof. Dr. phil., Harvard University, Cambridge (Mass.), USA Nobel Prize 1961

For his fundamental research on the processes in the inner ear, which led to important theoretical and practical insights into energy conversion in the human ear canal.

1957 

Wald, George
1906 – 1997

Professor of Biology, Harvard University Medical School, Cambridge (Mass.), USA, Nobel Prize 1967

To the man who, with admirable perseverance and ingenious methods, researched the chemical structure of visual pigments, elucidated their formation and degradation in the eye, and thus enabled an understanding of the primary processes of vision.

1955 

Hodgkin, Alan Lloyd, Sir
1914 – 1998 

Dr., Professor of Physiology, University of Cambridge, Nobel Prize 1963

To the outstanding scientist whose work has given neurophysiology a new direction, and to the researcher who has traced the process of nerve excitation to measurable ion displacement.

1954 

Platt, Harry, Sir
1886 – 1986 

Dr med., Professor of Orthopaedics, University of Manchester

To Sir Harry Platt, the distinguished disciple of Sir Robert Jones, whose heritage he has not only administered with wisdom an forethought, but enriched with his own original and fruitful contributions. For the last forty years he has been in the vanguard of the imposing advance of Anglo-Saxon orthopaedic surgery, and has helped to bring this work to world-wide fame, thus achieving a task of great international and scientific value. Beyond the limits of his surgical research work, devoted principally to the traumatic lesions of the nerves and paralysis, congenital and acquired articular affections and bone diseases, he has distinguished himself as an eminent teacher and organizer, thus opening new ways for the development of Social Medicine. His life-work is the cornerstone in the important social-biological institutions without which a modern State would be unthinkable. 

1951 

Fellenberg, Theodor von
1881 – 1962 

Dr. phil., Head of the Chemical Laboratory, Federal Health Office, Bern

In recognition of his lifelong achievements in developing precise methods for determining medically and biologically important trace elements, vitamins, and nutrients.

1950 

Christoffel, Hans
1888 – 1959 

Doctor of Medicine, practicing psychiatrist, Basel

In recognition of his tireless research work as a practicing psychotherapist to promote the development of a realistic and comprehensive medical psychology.

Prof. Dr. Stefanie Dimmeler, Director of the Institute for Cardiovascular Regeneration, Center for Molecular Medicine, Goethe University Frankfurt, has made significant contributions to a better understanding of the pathophysiology of cardiovascular diseases. Her research has advanced our understanding of the mechanisms of NO synthase activation in endothelial cells to a new level. Stefanie Dimmeler has done pioneering work by describing the role of non-coding RNA in endothelial cells. She has identified the importance of different groups of non-coding RNA and demonstrated their role in homeostasis and heart regeneration. She is currently working on therapeutic approaches to improve vascular and cardiac repair and regeneration after myocardial infarction.

The Faculty is not only recognizing her outstanding achievements in medical research but also her inspiring enthusiasm and motivation for her field of research.

Sleep is a familiar phenomenon. From a neuroscientific perspective, however, it is a mystery. For his continued efforts to elucidate the mechanisms underlying sleep/wake regulation and his many contributions to spreading knowledge about sleep diseases to the general public, the Faculty of Medicine awards the honorary doctorate to Prof. Dr. med. Masashi Yanagisawa, Director of the International Institute for Integrative Sleep Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Japan.

Masashi Yanagisawa is a pioneer in cloning peptide genes implicated in body and brain physiology. In 1988, he identified endothelin as a potent vasoconstrictor factor produced by endothelial cells; then the endothelin isopeptide family, endothelin receptors, and endothelin converting enzymes - a hormonal system that raises blood pressure. He elucidated the role of endothelin in the embryonic development of neural crest-derived tissues, and the mechanism for Hirschsprung‘s disease and related neurocristopathies in humans. In 1998, Masashi Yanagisawa discovered orexins/hypocretins as endogenous ligands for orphan G protein-coupled receptors that regulate wakefulness-feeding behavior. This discovery opened a new era of sleep studies, as the lack of a functional orexin system leads to the disease narcolepsy in humans.

2021 

Anne-Françoise Auberson Nordmann 

Ms. Anne-Françoise Auberson Nordmann, is the pioneer in the field of rare diseases in Switzerland. She is an advocate for people living with a rare disease and the co-founder of the ProRaris Alliance Rare Diseases Switzerland, which unites those affected and gives them a strong voice. Anne-Françoise Auberson Nordmann makes a significant contribution to the National Rare Disease Concept. She works tirelessly and selflessly for those affected, in particular for their empowerment and for a new understanding of the role of patients as competent, fully-fledged discussion partners. She makes numerous contributions to the dissemination of knowledge about rare diseases to the general public.

2020 

Albert Hofman 

Prof. Dr. Albert Hofman, Boston, USA, is one of the world's most influential researchers in the field of epidemiology, who has identified pathogenetic relationships between neurological, cardiovascular and endocrinological diseases in large population studies using new genetic and imaging methods. For several years, he has supported the exchange of young scientists between the University of Bern and the Harvard School of Public Health, as well as facilitating participation in further education and training events for researchers from Bern in Boston.

2018 

Ingeborg Hochmair-Desoyer 

The Faculty of Medicine and the University of Bern confer an honorary doctorate on Dr. Ingeborg Hochmair-Desoyer, a scientist who supports the development of hearing aid technology with extraordinary commitment and actively participates in its further development, a successful entrepreneur in a medical technology research company who fulfills her responsibility to society in many ways, and a visionary inventor and developer who devotes herself to long-term biomedical research and development issues. Dr. Ingeborg Hochmair-Desoyer the doctor honoris causa.

There are few personalities who master several activities and even several careers at the same time and who are therefore perceived as particularly outstanding. Dr. Hochmair is certainly one such outstanding personality. She is a scientist and inventor, Austria's model entrepreneur, and at the same time the mother of four children and wife of a busy university professor.

2017 

Jocham Uwe E.  

Mr. Uwe E. Jocham studied pharmacy at the Ludwig Maximilian University in Munich in 1982. This was followed by an impressive international career in the industry. In 2015, he was appointed by the management of CSL Behring in Australia to plan a production facility for recombinant proteins in Lengnau and to lead it as President of the Management Board. His commitment to economic policy in the capital region contributes to the outstanding positioning of Bern as a medical location.

In addition to his political and industrial career, Mr. Uwe E. Jocham has constantly made his academic skills available to universities. As the initiator of a new lecture series, he is also tirelessly committed to pharmaceutical progress. He has supported the Faculty of Medicine in Bern for many years. As its patron, he actively contributes to its continuous development.

The Faculty of Medicine and the University of Bern confer the Doctor honoris causa on Mr. Uwe E. Jocham, the successful head of a biomedical research company who fulfils his responsibility to society in many ways.

2015 

Denis de Limoges 

Denis de Limoges, the electronics engineer who, with his extraordinary wealth of ideas and expertise, enabled the development of research equipment for breaking new ground in cellular electrophysiology research worldwide, the committed co-thinker who, with great creativity and empathy for the goals of physiology teaching, developed and realized a large number of new devices for the practical courses of medical students, the ever-helpful member of staff who, with his commitment to the application of new technologies and his enthusiastic and open manner, supported young researchers in their work and motivated them to break new ground themselves in solving their problems.

2012 

Ramelet Albert-Adrien 

Dr. Albert-Adrien Ramelet is currently one of the best-known active specialists in the field of vascular diseases - phlebology and angiology.

His career has mainly taken place outside of university hospitals and off the typical academic path - and yet Albert-Adrien Ramelet's achievements are extraordinary. For example, he is a bestselling author: his four textbooks on phlebology are considered reference works and have been translated into six different languages. More than 100,000 copies have been sold to date.

Born in the canton of Vaud, he has been tirelessly involved in research, teaching and continuing education and has been committed to his specialist field for 20 years. Thanks to his significant involvement, angiology has become an independent discipline in Switzerland, with Albert-Adrien Ramelet also providing decisive input for corresponding further training programs. He was also involved for many years in the development of new medical devices that are routinely used in vascular procedures such as the removal of varicose veins. He is now receiving an honorary doctorate from the Faculty of Medicine as official recognition at a high level - among other things for the fact that "a colleague in private practice can contribute to the further development of medical expertise, further education and training and quality in a subject even without an academic professorship".

Dr. Albert-Adrien Ramelet runs his own practice in Lausanne, which has served as a training center for entire generations of future phlebologists for many years. He is also employed as a consultant at the University Clinic for Dermatology at Inselspital.

2011 

Rognon Jacques
1938

Jacques Rognon is committed to researching rare diseases and supporting affected patients: The Faculty of Medicine at the University of Bern has awarded him an honorary doctorate for his exceptional commitment to research.

More than 25 years ago, Jacques Rognon learned that his two boys were suffering from myopathy. He and his wife then decided, with the help of a few friends, to support patients suffering from this and other rare genetic neuromuscular diseases. As a result, the Swiss Foundation for Muscular Disease Research (SSEM) was founded. The foundation helps those affected, provides information and promotes clinical research through grants. Since its establishment in 1985, the SSEM has supported more than 60 researchers in Switzerland from all of the country's medical faculties with a total of over CHF 20 million.

Jacques Rognon, an engineer and doctor of physics as well as a deserving member of numerous committees, is also involved in other organizations: As co-founder and president of the Swiss Telethon Action Foundation (STAS), the 74-year-old from Fribourg collects considerable donations for various patient aid organizations throughout Switzerland every year.

Lindheimer, Marshall D.
1932

The New Yorker Marshall D. Lindheimer is still fighting tirelessly against pregnancy intoxication - in Bern and around the world.

His new approach has helped many pregnant women and their children: Marshall Lindheimer is considered the "father of obstetric nephrology" and a tireless researcher in the field of renal physiology during pregnancy. The 79-year-old scientist has made outstanding contributions in the field of pre-eclampsia, pregnancy intoxication, in particular at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and the Department of Nephrology/Hypertension at the University of Bern.

The native New Yorker had already maintained close contact with local nephrology in the 1970s, and it was not least thanks to Lindheimer that Bern developed into the most important pre-eclampsia center in Switzerland. With its integration into the new National Center of Competence in Research "Transcure" at the University of Bern, the center is now firmly anchored in the Swiss research landscape. However, Marshall Lindheimer's commitment has an even greater reach: to this day, he supports the World Health Organization (WHO) in the fight against pre-eclampsia, as it is the second largest cause of maternal mortality worldwide.

2010 

Kneubühl, Beat
1944

Wound ballistics specialist Dr. Beat Kneubühl knows how bullets behave when they penetrate the body. Together with forensic pathologist Karl Sellier, he published the first textbook on wound ballistics in 1992. Beat Kneubühl passes on his knowledge not only to students, but also to doctors - in particular war surgeons from the International Committee of the Red Cross. After an apprenticeship as a draughtsman, Beat Kneubühl studied mathematics and physics. From 1974, he worked in the Ballistics Division of the DDPS (Federal Department of Defense, Civil Protection and Sport). In the USA, he learned the simulation technique using gelatine and introduced the "ballistic soap" method he had developed. Based on Kneubühl's work, the FDFA (Federal Department of Foreign Affairs) submitted a proposal to the UN to reformulate the convention on the effects of small-caliber weapons.

From 1995, Kneubühl also worked at the Bern Institute of Forensic Medicine and obtained his doctorate in forensic sciences in Lausanne in 1999. After retiring from the DDPS, Kneubühl set up the Center for Forensic Physics and Ballistics at the University of Bern.

Cochran, David
1952 

Prof. Dr. med. dent., periodontist, San Antonio, Texas, USA
In recognition of his outstanding scientific achievements in the field of tissue regeneration in periodontology and dental implantology. To the clinically oriented researcher who, over the past 20 years, has contributed to the improvement of treatment results in dentistry for the benefit of patients with countless research projects involving the testing of new titanium surfaces, implant surfaces and biomaterials. This award is also intended to honor the remarkable scientific collaboration between the honoree and the Bern Dental Clinics (ZMK), which has been stimulating and successful for both sides.

2009 

Mayer, Andreas C.R.
1936

Graduate engineer, Niederrohrdorf
To the world-renowned engineer and scientist, the pioneer in the development of clean diesel engines, the pioneer in the field of measurement technology for the quantitative detection of nanoparticles, the tireless mediator between science, industry and administration in the definition of limit values, who through his competent work has made a significant contribution to better air and thus to improved public health in Switzerland and also worldwide in various places.

2008 

Gygax, Erich
1964 

Chief Cardiotechnician at the University Clinic for Cardiovascular Surgery at Inselspital Bern

Honored for his commitment, scientific contributions and outstanding teaching achievements.

Tireless interest, innovative new developments: Erich Gygax has thus contributed to the excellent results of coronary surgery in Bern. The Faculty of Medicine is awarding Erich Gygax an honorary doctorate. Gygax trained as a cardiotechnician at the Inselspital in Bern and graduated with a European diploma after courses in Berlin and San Diego. Further stays abroad - in Helsinki, Paris, London and New York - have further deepened Gygax's knowledge in the use of the heart-lung machine.

For eight years, Gygax has confidently and inventively led the team of cardiotechnicians and is committed to optimizing and maintaining the viability of transplants. Together with cardiac surgeons at Inselspital, the chief perfusionist has contributed to significant improvements in medical perfusion technology and transplantation. Gygax is also involved in forensic medicine.

2007 

Borst, Hans-Georg
1927

Prof. Dr. med., München

• The physician and surgeon who served patients for many years through the introduction of innovative surgical techniques and his outstanding clinical work;
• The pioneer of aortic surgery and thoracic organ transplantation;
• The researcher and teacher who tirelessly expanded medical knowledge and passed it on to the next generation of surgeons;
• The humanist who promoted cooperation in the field of surgery in a comprehensive manner - both nationally and internationally.

2007 

Koss, Leopold G.
1921 

Prof. Dr. med., New York, USA

For his pioneering work in the field of cytological tumor diagnostics.

In addition to his work as a pathologist and researcher, he has rendered tireless services to academic teaching. Koss' Diagnostic Cytology, a worldwide standard work, is an indispensable part of any specialist library. As a gifted teacher and donor of prizes for academic excellence, Leopold Koss promoted young medical talent at the Faculty of Medicine. The foundation he established also facilitates scientific exchange between Bern and other universities worldwide.

The honorary doctorate from the Faculty of Medicine in Bern is a sign of recognition of his great academic merits and his enduring connection with our university.

2006 

Suter, Hans
1930 

Dr. med., dermatologist, Thun, Switzerland
To the versatile and dedicated doctor, the long-time teacher of practical dermatology, the competent collector and mediator of fine art, the persistent researcher and interpreter of Paul Klee's illness.

2005 

Röthlisberger, Martin
1934 

Dr. med., Arosa, Switzerland
He has been running his practice in a mountain valley in Graubünden with great enthusiasm for 37 years and has also become known throughout Switzerland and abroad for his commitment to general practitioners. This has taken the form of teaching students in Bern, the further training of numerous assistants and doctoral students in his practice, a model continuing education course for GPs for 28 years, as well as practical research. His example has influenced an entire generation of GPs and still shows today how attractive and versatile this profession (this vocation) can be.

2004 

Oberli-Eggler, Hermann
1940 

Dr. med., Villars-le-Grand

Who, with tireless selfless dedication, has realized a project that has become an integral part of the Solomon Islands' public health system. The project is a pioneering model for medical development aid that combines modern methods and technologies with respect for local conditions, achieves sustainability thanks to the promotion of local forces and, thanks to the involvement of Swiss students, nurses and doctors, also contributes to shaping medical practice in this country.

2003 

Lüthy, Ruedi
1941 

Prof. Dr. med., Honorary Professor, University of Zürich, Feldmeilen

Honored for his outstanding role in the fight against AIDS. He was one of the first in Switzerland to recognize the great importance of this new disease and has since been an exemplary and consistent advocate for the treatment and prevention of AIDS. His commitment includes his medical work for the benefit of his patients, the establishment and management of a specialized department, leading participation in national and international commissions and research projects, public relations work, the founding of a hospice for AIDS patients and, most recently, the development of an aid project in Africa. He has understood how to combine human commitment, medical science and social responsibility for the benefit of severely affected people in a highly effective way.

2001 

Kuettner, Klaus E.
1933

Prof. Dr. pharm., Chicago, Ill., USA

Over the last four decades, Klaus E. Kuettner's intensive research activities have generated new and in some cases groundbreaking findings in the fields of osteoarthritis and articular cartilage biology. In particular, we owe Klaus E. Kuettner new insights into the inhibition of vascular invasion into cartilage tissue, the mechanism of tumor invasion, the processes of articular cartilage degradation and various new approaches to the drug-based prevention of joint osteoarthritis. In addition, he has always been able to stimulate new research directions and provide impetus, especially for numerous young scientists. These impulses have had a very fruitful impact in various laboratories around the world. He has thus made a significant contribution to initiating numerous international collaborations and triggering new research projects.