The Minkowski Prize is given by the European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD) in recognition to research which has been carried out by a person normally residing in Europe, as manifested by publications which contribute to the advancement of knowledge concerning diabetes mellitus. The Prize honors the name of Oskar Minkowski (1858–1931), a physician and physiologist who was the discoverer of the role of pancreas in the control of glucose metabolism. It has been awarded annually since 1966, and the winner is invited to pronounce a Minkowski Lecture during the EASD Annual Conference. It is traditionally seen as the most prestigious European prize in the field of diabetes research. Since 1966, the award is sponsored by a pharmaceutical company Sanofi-Aventis. The prize consists of a certificate and 20,000 euros plus travel expenses. The candidate must be less than 45 years of age on 1 January of the year of award. Self-nomination is possible. Source: Wikipedia (en)