(2016) Bruce Robinson, MD – Dr. Robinson is the 2016 winner of the iMig Service Award, for his service to our organization for the improvement of international research into mesothelioma.   In the early 1990’s, Dr. Robinson, with Dr. Marie-Claude Jaurand, were the founders of the iMig, for the goal of aiding researchers by sharing reagents and expertise in the study of this unusual tumor, to improve international cooperation and to provide a forum for sharing ideas.  The effort led to the first iMig meeting, in Paris in 1991.  From that early time, his generous and enthusiastic spirit has inspired many to enter the field of mesothelioma research.   In particular, his investigations into immune therapy against mesothelioma have been at the forefront and led many to join this promising field.

His other contributions include coordinating an iMig meeting in Perth, Australia in 2002 and serving as President of iMig from 1993-1995. He has been a continuous member of the iMig Board and has guided iMig always with the goal of openness, generosity to all those who wish to join, and a dedication to the treatment of patients with mesothelioma.

Professor Bruce Robinson has also contributed in many other areas.  He is Director of the National Centre for Asbestos Related Diseases, a Consultant Physician at the University of Western Australia and a Research Scientist of the Tumour Immunology Group at UWA.  He is the creator of the Fathering Project, designed to help make better dads for the benefit of kids.  In 2013, he was recognized as the West Australian of the Year, a huge honor and one that, for him, was one of the most meaningful.

Professor Robinson is honored with the iMig Service Award for his unstinting support and wise guidance of the iMig and the field of mesothelioma research.

(2014) Steve Mutsaers, PhD. – Professor Mutsaers is the recipient of the inaugural iMig Service Award, which was created to honor his tremendous service to iMig. From 1997 until recently, Prof Mutsaers served as secretary of iMig. He organized the Fifth iMig meeting (1999) held in Grantham UK, as a joint meeting with the International Congress on Peritoneal Repair and Adhesions. In every way, Prof Mutsaers has guided our society with integrity, dedication and collegiality.

In addition, Prof Mutsaers is a Senior Research Scientist and is the head of the Tissue Repair Unit at the Institute for Respiratory Health, and the Centre for Asthma, Allergy and Respiratory Research, School of Medicine and Pharmacology, University of Western Australia. His research interests include studies examining the pathogenesis of malignant mesothelioma and lung fibrosis and the mechanisms regulating mesothelial repair. He is regularly invited to present his work nationally and internationally and sits on several national and international scientific committees and granting bodies and is the President of the International Mesothelioma Interest Group (IMIG). He has a strong track record in student supervision at Honours, Masters and PhD levels.