Jan Konvalinka received the Arnošt Lustig Prize

Courage, bravery, humanity, and justice — these are the values embodied by the laureates of the Arnošt Lustig Prize, awarded since 2011 by the Czech Israeli Mutual Chamber of Commerce. The 2024 Prize was presented on Wednesday, October 1, in the Ball Game Hall of Prague Castle by the President of the Czech Republic, Petr Pavel, to Professor Jan Konvalinka, biochemist, Director of the Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, and member of the Learned Society of the Czech Republic. 

“Jan Konvalinka is one of those personalities who excel not only through their scientific achievements, but above all through their human stance. In his work and public engagement, he has long embodied the values Arnošt Lustig cherished: bravery in science as well as civic life, humanity in relation to others, justice in public debate, and humility before knowledge and life itself. As a biochemist, university teacher, and popularizer of science, he has long contributed to the development of Czech science, education, and open dialogue between the scientific community and the public,” the award citation states.

“In his professional and civic roles, he demonstrates courage and bravery in defending the truth, humanity in his relations with others, and fairness in judgment — values that Arnošt Lustig cherished and that the Arnošt Lustig Prize seeks to recognize,” said Jan Pirk, Chairman of the Award Committee.

Among other things, Jan Konvalinka played an important role during the COVID-19 pandemic, patiently debunking disinformation, explaining virological, immunological, and epidemiological principles to the public, and standing up for colleagues facing threats and hatred because of their work. On many other occasions as well, he has supported rationality, factual discussion, and the defense of those unjustly persecuted.

Photos: Morris Media