Professors Bruce Taylor and Helmut Butzkueven have been named co-recipients of MS Australia’s 2025 MS Research Award. The announcement was made on January 13, 2026, recognizing their respective contributions to multiple sclerosis (MS) research and efforts to improve outcomes for individuals living with the condition.
The MS Research Award acknowledges significant contributions to MS research, celebrating advancements in understanding the condition, and in the development of treatments, preventions, or cures.
Professor Bruce Taylor's Contributions
Professor Bruce Taylor, a neurologist and MS researcher based at the Menzies Institute for Medical Research in Hobart, Tasmania, is recognized for over 25 years of leadership in advancing MS research. His work has included leading national and international studies that have contributed to knowledge of MS prevalence, epidemiology, genetics, biomarkers, and disease progression. Professor Taylor's research has also informed earlier diagnosis methods and improved clinical care for people with MS. He is also a contributor to the "Understanding MS" course, an international online education program. Professor Taylor noted the importance of collaboration and community in MS research.
Professor Helmut Butzkueven's Contributions
Professor Helmut Butzkueven, a neurologist and global MS researcher affiliated with Monash University and Alfred Health in Melbourne, receives the award for over two decades of leadership in enhancing care and understanding of MS. Professor Butzkueven is the co-founder and Managing Director of MSBase, which operates as the world’s largest MS registry, containing over 125,000 patient records from 50 countries. His work with MSBase has contributed to an evidence base that has influenced treatment guidelines, strengthened real-world evidence, and improved the understanding of MS progression over time. He also leads global drug safety initiatives. Professor Butzkueven stated his motivation is derived from patient encounters, citing unmet needs as a challenge and motivator. He also expressed increased optimism regarding better monitoring methods, biomarkers, and clinical trials for MS, particularly concerning MS progression and the potential role of the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV).
Recognition from MS Australia
Rohan Greenland, CEO of MS Australia, commented on the impact of both recipients. He stated that Professor Taylor’s research has deepened the global understanding of MS and continues to influence clinical practice and future research directions. Regarding Professor Butzkueven, Mr. Greenland affirmed that his contributions have had a lasting international impact on the understanding and treatment of MS, and that his leadership in establishing MSBase has transformed MS research and clinical care.