An EDOR researcher's work on state-of-the-art devices for managing diabetes has been recognised with a major award from the Health Research Council of New Zealand (HRC).
Professor Ben Wheeler and his colleague Associate Professor Martin de Bock from the Faculty of Medicine – Christchurch jointly received the Beaven Medal for their work creating automated insulin delivery technology for those living with diabetes.
This HRC award recognises excellence in translational health research, which has had high impact on clinical practice and patient health.
The Beaven Medal acknowledges the team's collective research and collaborations with industry that have enabled the nationwide adoption of automated insulin delivery and continuous glucose monitoring for New Zealanders living with type 1 diabetes.
This landmark achievement, which was confirmed in October 2024 when Pharmac announced full funding of these technologies for all New Zealanders with type 1 diabetes, was underpinned by the team’s research and leadership and assisted by EDOR and Diabetes New Zealand's advocacy in partnership with the diabetes community.
The team’s clinical trials and contribution to international guidelines have helped make automated insulin delivery the gold standard globally for treating type 1 diabetes.
Professor Wheeler and EDOR are very grateful to the Lions New Zealand District 202F who have funded some of this research.
Representatives from Lions New Zealand District 202F with Professor Ben Wheeler (middle right) and EDOR Co-Director Professor Jim Mann (middle left).
Find out more about the award
Prestigious research honours for Otago academics, University of Otago website, 29 October, 2025