Erika von Mutius receives Bavarian Maximilian Order

Helmholtz Munich pioneer, Prof. Erika von Mutius, was honored with the Bavarian Maximilian Order for Science and Art for her groundbreaking work in pediatric medicine and epidemiology. Her research in the field of asthma and allergic diseases is groundbreaking and has significantly expanded understanding of these health issues leading to improvements in the health of children worldwide. Erika von Mutius was highly praised for her long-standing dedication to scientific research and her humanitarian efforts.

Bavarian Minister-President, Dr. Markus Söder, awarded the Bavarian Maximilian Order for Science and Art to nine individuals. The Order was originally established in 1853 by King Maximilian II and has continued through a law passed in 1980 to honor outstanding achievements in the fields of science and art.

This year's award ceremony marked the 20^th anniversary and increased the total number of awardees to 243 individuals. The number of recipients still alive is limited to 100. Erika von Mutius and the other eight awardees now join the exclusive community of 91 individuals currently carrying this prestigious recognition.

Erika von Mutius' research is groundbreaking in the fields of asthma and allergy development

As a dedicated pediatrician and epidemiologist, Erika von Mutius conducts research in her function as the Head of the Environmental Health Center at Helmholtz Munich, aiming to identify the causes of asthma and allergy development to ultimately prevent these diseases in children with higher risk. Her research focuses on genetic and environmental risk factors. Among her most prominent findings are the so-called "Farm Studies”, where she uncovered relevant exposures and underlying mechanisms that provide strong protection against asthma and allergies.