Alum Judith James Receives Scientific Honor

August 11, 2011

OBU alum Dr. Judith James recently received the Edward L. and Thelma Gaylord Prize for Scientific Achievement from The Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation.

James received the award for her groundbreaking work in researching diseases of the immune system. The award is the highest scientific honor given by the OMRF.

A native of Pond Creek, Okla., James graduated from OBU summa cum laude with honors in 1989 with a degree in chemistry. She received a medical doctorate and a doctorate of philosophy in immunology with honors from the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center.

Her work has primarily included the study of the immune system and autoimmune diseases. She has won numerous awards including the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers in 2000 and the Gaylord Prize for Scientific Achievement in 2004. Her work has included discoveries in the progression of lupus, a disease that affects millions of people worldwide. Her lab has begun research to try to understand other autoimmune diseases as well as responses to vaccinations.

"We hope to develop better diagnostic approaches and therapeutic interventions, as well as to contribute to the understanding of basic immune function," said James.

James received OBU's Profile in Excellence award in 2005. The honor is given by the OBU Alumni Association to a former student who has demonstrated recognizable accomplishment in his or her profession, business, avocation or life service in such a way as to bring pride and honor to the University.

To learn more about James' pathway to research, click here.