A cognitive and behavioural neurologist with the Northern Medical Program at UNBC has just received the Fritz Worwag Research Prize in Germany.

Dr. Jacqueline Pettersen received the award earlier this month for her medical research on vitamin D and cognition.

Photo Credit: Contributed

Pettersen was one of two recipients of the award and the lone recipient from North America.

Prize winners are determined by an independent jury of medical scientists. The 2018 prizes were given to those who showed a significant contribution to clinical findings on biofactors for neuroprotection.

“To know that my work is being noticed, and to receive such recognition, provides an incredible sense of validation that my research is important and impactful, not just at a local level, but on the world stage,” said Pettersen.

The award was given to Pettersen for her research entitled “Does high dose vitamin D supplementation enhance cognition?” which was published in Experimental Gerontology in 2017. 

Her study demonstrated a significant improvement in visual memory in individuals who were provided with 4,000 IU of vitamin D per day over 18 weeks.

Pettersen was presented with one of the two Fritz Worwag prizes as well as 8,000 Euros.

“It was a wonderful experience to be able to meet other researchers from around the world whose interests overlap with mine, and I am excited about the potential opportunities that may arise for international collaboration on future research,” said Pettersen.

“I am passionate about the importance of healthy living for disease prevention. I look forward to continuing my work in the area of vitamin D and cognition in particular, but also more broadly, in nutrition and cognition.”