A scientist known for his pioneering research into human genetics has been named as the recipient of one of the United States’ most prestigious awards.

Francis S Collins, who is a Christian, will be presented with the National Academy of Sciences 2026 Public Welfare Medal for his contributions to public welfare as the leader of the international Human Genome Project.

Dr Collins is a physician-geneticist noted for his landmark discoveries of disease genes and he is a former director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). His research laboratory has discovered a number of important genes, including those responsible for cystic fibrosis, neurofibromatosis, Huntington's disease, a familial endocrine cancer syndrome, and most recently, genes for type 2 diabetes, and the gene that causes Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome, a rare condition that causes premature aging.

The 75-year-old has also championed research into Alzheimer’s.

Announcing Dr Collins’ award, a statement from the National Academy of Sciences said his “scientific and public service career has advanced understanding of human disease, strengthened ethical frameworks in genetics, fostered public trust in science, and guided national and global responses to health crises". It added: “The medal is the Academy’s most prestigious award, established in 1914 and presented annually to honor extraordinary use of science for the public good."

Dr Collins converted to Christianity from atheism when he was 27 after witnessing the role of faith in his parents' lives and reading C S Lewis. He identifies as an evangelical Christian and advocates for the compatibility of science and faith. In 2006 he wrote the book 'The Language of God'.

He will be presented with The Public Welfare Medal on 26th April.