Rwandan researcher scoops award from American Academy of Neurology

Rwandan neurology researcher Dr Olivier Uwishema has earned a prestigious award from the American Academy of Neurology (AAN). Uwishema received the 2026 H. Richard Tyler Award in the AAN's Scientific Research Award category during the institution's annual meeting held from April 18–22 in Chicago. ALSO READ: Rwandan researcher receives UK’s Diana Award The category recognizes researchers across a wide range of topics and career stages for meaningful contributions to the advancement of neurological science. Uwishema’s work spans neurology, neuroscience, medical education, and global health research, with a strong focus on strengthening research capacity and fostering international collaboration, particularly in underserved and low-resource settings. The award-winning researcher's latest recognition placed him among distinguished neurologists, neuroscientists, and researchers who gathered in Chicago from across the world. ALSO READ: Rwanda-affiliated scientists ranked among world’s top 2% As part of the award, Uwishema will conduct his research at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, Missouri. The American Academy of Neurology Annual Meeting brought together thousands of neurologists, neuroscientists, clinician-educators, and researchers from across the globe to present discoveries, exchange knowledge, and advance the future of brain health. Recognition at this level reflects both scientific merit and growing international visibility. ALSO READ: Rwandan leads MIT scientists to develop tech for better wearable devices Uwishema, who won the AAN's 2024 International Scholar Award, told The New Times he was deeply honoured to earn the 2026 H. Richard Tyler Award. This recognition means a lot to me because it reflects not only a personal milestone, but also the importance of research, mentorship, and global collaboration in advancing neurological science and brain health, said Uwishema, who founded the scientific research nonprofit Oli Health Magazine Organization (OHMO). As a Rwandan neurology researcher, receiving this award at one of the world’s leading neurology gatherings is truly inspiring. It encourages me to continue strengthening research capacity, supporting young researchers through OHMO, and working hard to contribute to scientific work that can improve health outcomes, especially in underserved and low-resource settings. He added that his recognition could inspire other young people from Africa to believe that their work can be recognized on global scientific platforms and contribute meaningfully to the future of medicine and research. Uwishema has previously been recognised for his works. He also earned the 2022 International Scholar Award from the Society for Neuro-Oncology in Florida, USA. He was selected for the prestigious Global Advocacy Leadership Program 2025 cohort, jointly sponsored and organized by the American Academy of Neurology and the World Federation of Neurology. He has also been named to the Forbes 30 Under 30 list in Medicine and Research and received the 2024 Diana Award from the British Royal Family.

News

Rwandan researcher scoops award from American Academy of Neurology