Amy E. Wright, research professor at Florida Atlantic University’s Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute, has received the Norman R. Fransworth ASP Research Achievement Award from the American Society of Pharmacognosy. Considered the society’s highest honor, the award recognizes Dr. Wright’s contributions to the discovery and development of biologically active marine natural products with significant pharmaceutical potential.
For the past four decades, Dr. Wright has focused her work on exploring deep-water marine ecosystems to uncover novel compounds capable of addressing cancer, infectious diseases, and other critical health challenges. She is an inventor on 33 U.S. patents and has discovered more than 100 marine natural products with potential for biological activities.
“I’m truly honored and humbled to receive this recognition from the American Society of Pharmacognosy,” said Dr. Wright. “This award represents a significant milestone in my career and reflects the collective efforts of the many talented colleagues and collaborators I’ve had the privilege to work with over the years. It’s incredibly rewarding to see the impact of marine natural products research recognized in this way.”
A graduate of California State University, Dominguez Hills, Dr. Wright holds a master’s degree and a Ph.D. in organic chemistry from the University of California, Riverside.