Global Network for Neglected Tropical Diseases honoured with Royal Society of Chemistry Prize

Global Network for Neglected Tropical Diseases recognised with Royal Society of Chemistry Prize

Neglected tropical diseases affect approximately one sixth of the world’s population. Among these, leishmaniasis and Chagas disease account for more than 20 million infections worldwide, with treatments if available, are often toxic, and painful to administer.

The NTD Network has brought together scientists from across continents, disciplines, and institutions, combining expertise in chemical biology, parasitology, structural biology, and drug discovery. This approach has enabled the team to address complex biological challenges with a breadth and depth that would not be possible within a single discipline.

 

“One of the greatest strengths of the NTD Network has been its ability to bring together researchers across disciplines, institutions and regions in a genuinely collaborative way. For us, this has demonstrated how much stronger science becomes when different perspectives, methods and forms of expertise are allowed to inform one another.”

Dr Exquiel Porta (UCL) 

Collaboration is central to the Network’s success. By fostering equitable partnerships across global North–South and South–South collaborations, the Network has not only advanced scientific discovery but also contributed to capacity building, training early‑career researchers, and establishing lasting international research relationships. The award also recognises the project’s enduring legacy, with partnerships continuing to drive new research and innovation in NTD drug discovery.

Durham University’s Biophysical Sciences Institute (BSI) played a key role in the early development of the Network, recognising its potential, supporting the team and helping to foster the interdisciplinary interactions that underpin its later success. This included facilitating a Special Interest Group, providing workshop and hosting visiting fellows at both senior and early‑career stages, enabling sustained collaboration and knowledge exchange.

Reflecting the ethos of the Biophysical Sciences Institute, the success of the Global Network for Neglected Tropical Diseases highlights the power of interdisciplinary collaboration, not only in advancing scientific knowledge, but also delivering real-world benefits for some of the world’s most vulnerable populations.

Find out more

• Professor Paul Denny (Durham University, Biosciences) 
• Network for Neglected Tropical Diseases 
• RSC Horizon Award 2026