Stevin Prize for Iris Sommer
For her groundbreaking contributions to the treatment of psychosis and schizophrenia, her pioneering role in highlighting sex differences in psychiatry, and her innovative use of artificial intelligence in mental healthcare, Iris Sommer has been awarded the NWO Stevin Prize. Together with the Spinoza Prize, this is the highest distinction for researchers in the Netherlands. Sommer receives €1,500,000 to support research and knowledge utilization.
Unlike many science prizes, the Stevin Prize is not only about scientific breakthroughs, but also about what that knowledge brings to society. Iris Sommer, Professor of Psychiatry at UMCG and the University of Groningen, has demonstrated for years how fundamental research can lead to better care and the practical application of knowledge. In addition to new insights into how the brain functions, her work has led to new treatment methods, guidelines for medication use, new applications of artificial intelligence, and policy developments in the field of women’s health.
Hallucinations and new treatments
One of her societal contributions began with research into auditory hallucinations, the experience of hearing voices in the absence of actual sounds. As one of the first researchers to do so, Sommer identified the brain regions that are active during these episodes. This fundamental discovery led to a new multidisciplinary treatment for people suffering from persistent hallucinations. The approach has been adopted outside the Netherlands and is now internationally recognized as an example of good mental healthcare.
Medication and better treatment choices
Her further research into schizophrenia and psychosis has also had major societal impact. Together with patients, relatives, and healthcare providers, Sommer investigated how people can safely taper off antipsychotic medication. Her studies showed that a carefully supervised tapering strategy can yield long-term benefits. These insights formed the basis for new Dutch and European guidelines on the use of medication in the treatment of psychosis.
Women’s health and sex differences
Sommer also demonstrated that men and women do not always respond to psychiatric disorders and treatments in the same way. Her research showed that female hormones such as estrogen influence brain function, can protect against psychoses, and affect the way medicines work. She highlighted that much medical knowledge and many treatment protocols based on research involving men may not be optimal for women. Her work laid an important foundation for greater attention to sex differences in research and treatment, and has influenced guidelines, medical education, and health policy, including the National Strategy for Women’s Health 2025–2030.
Artificial intelligence in psychiatry
Sommer is among the researchers applying artificial intelligence in mental healthcare. Under her leadership, systems are being developed that can detect subtle changes in speech indicating an impending psychiatric relapse. This helps healthcare providers intervene earlier and offer timely support to patients. These applications are being tested in daily practice together with researchers and healthcare professionals.
Accessible science
Outside academia, she also has a broad outreach. Through best-selling books, columns, podcasts, festivals, and public lectures, she reaches hundreds of thousands of people and contributes to greater awareness of mental health and a reduction in the stigma around psychiatric conditions.
Sommer sees the award of the Stevin Prize as recognition for her entire team and as an opportunity to further develop new research. ‘I work with a large number of highly talented young researchers whom I can now offer security for the coming years thanks to this prize. This wonderful award means we can further deepen our research into women’s mental health. There is still much to be done in this area, but also much to gain in terms of public health.’
Jacquelien Scherpen, Rector Magnificus of the University of Groningen: ‘As Rector, I am proud of Iris Sommer and warmly congratulate her on winning the Stevin Prize. Her research aligns perfectly with the goals of the University’s institutional plan and contributes to a better society. I have also seen how she shares her research in an accessible and inspiring way with a wide audience. This prize is a well-deserved recognition of her work.’
Wiro Niessen, Dean of the Faculty of Medical Sciences at the University of Groningen and member of the Board of Directors of UMCG: ‘What especially appeals to me in Iris’s work is that she always starts from the question of what really helps patients move forward. Whether it concerns psychosis, women’s health, or new AI applications, her research contributes to a better quality of life and more healthy years for everyone. This award is a wonderful recognition of all that she has meant for science, healthcare, and society.’
Stevin Prize
The Stevin Prize is the highest award for researchers in the Netherlands who have made exceptional contributions to the societal application of knowledge. The Stevin Prize is awarded by NWO. Researchers must be nominated to be eligible for the prize. In 2020, University of Groningen Professor Linda Steg received the Stevin Prize.