Pfizer CEO Dr. Albert Bourla has received an honorary doctorate from the Technion-Israel Institute of Technology for his role in developing a safe COVID-19 vaccine.
Bourla and his company were the first to develop an effective vaccine against the coronavirus through using mRNA techniques in just nine months.
Technion president, Prof. Uri Sivan, presented Bourla with the award during the graduation ceremony for over 1,800 undergraduates in recognition for his leadership in developing the vaccine.
“As a scientist and a Jew, I can’t overstate how much it means to me to receive this degree,” said Bourla. “Since first opening its doors, the Technion has been a beacon of light not only for Israel, but for the entire world.
“The story of the Technion, like that of my company, Pfizer, is one of innovation, courage, and optimism, all of which have helped give birth to technological and scientific breakthroughs aimed at making the world a better place.”