The Ontario Medical Association has extended honorary membership to UWindsor biochemistry professor Siyaram Pandey in recognition of his contributions to science.

The organization represents the political, clinical, and economic interests of Ontario physicians. Its awards citation noted Dr. Pandey’s research on apoptosis — cell suicide — which is central to various aspects of human health, including neurodegenerative diseases and cancer.

“While we are not able to gather in person this year to celebrate your achievement, I want to express my personal thank you for all that you do to support the profession and the health of Ontarians,” the association’s chief executive officer, Allan O’Dette, wrote in a letter to Pandey announcing the award.

Pandey said he was humbled and honoured by the recognition from the medical community.

“As a biochemist and scientist, I am grateful to OMA for recognizing our medically relevant research contribution,” he said. “I thank my students, collaborators, and generous support from the community for our project working on basic and applied research with naturally-derived materials with anticancer activity and neuroprotective activity.”