March 24, 2000

BIRMINGHAM, AL — Kevin Kirk, Ph.D., professor of physiology and biophysics at UAB (University of Alabama at Birmingham), is the first recipient of the Karlin Henze Memorial Award presented by the Gregory Fleming James Cystic Fibrosis Research Center at UAB. The award was created in honor of Karlin Henze, a research assistant at the center until her death from cystic fibrosis in February of 1999.

Kirk is internationally known for his research concerning cystic fibrosis. In the past few years, he has published research findings in a number of highly respected scientific journals, including both Nature and Science.

“Kevin Kirk has made outstanding contributions to our understanding of cystic fibrosis,” said Dr. Eric Sorscher, director of the CF center. “His research is among the most exciting work being done in the field of CFTR molecular physiology. He is an outstanding scientist, a wonderful mentor and a great asset to our university.”

Karlin Henze, a native of Huntsville, began working at the CF center in 1990, following her graduation from the University of Alabama at Huntsville. She underwent a double lung transplant in 1995 at the University of North Carolina, but returned to her work at UAB until her death last year at age 30.

“Karlin was a firm believer in the value of research into the causes, effects and treatments of cystic fibrosis, a sentiment we share,” said her parents, William and Reet Henze. “We are gratified by this unique and important way to honor our daughter’s memory.”

Kirk received the first Karlin Henze Memorial Award at a ceremony at the center on March 24.