The Basser Global prize, issued yearly by the Basser Center for BRCA at the University of Pennsylvania, recognizes a leading scientist who has advanced BRCA1 and BRCA2-related research.

Prof. Levy-Lahad has been active in BRCA1 and BRCA2 research and clinical translation for 30 years, and is one of the world’s leading experts on inherited breast cancer among Jewish women.

Her work provided the evidence-base and impetus for implementing a free nationwide genetic screening program among Ashkenazi Jews in Israel, which has since expanded to include Ethiopian Jews. Levy-Lahad has also co-led the Middle East Breast Cancer Study (MEBCS) of newly diagnosed Palestinian breast cancer patients and their families, identifying features unique to this population.

Prof. Levy-Lahad will give the keynote address at the 14th annual Basser Center Scientific Symposium, taking place May 12-13, 2026.