The Gerald L. Klerman Award is the highest honor that DBSA gives to members of the scientific community. Presented each year, this award recognizes researchers whose work advances knowledge of the causes, diagnosis, and treatment of depression and bipolar disorder. Awards are given annually in each of the following two categories: DBSA Gerald L. Klerman Award, Senior Investigator, and DBSA Gerald L. Klerman Award, Young Investigator. Learn more about Gerald L. Klerman.
Gabriel R. Fries, PhD | 2026 Young Investigator Award
Gabriel R. Fries, PhD, is an Assistant Professor in the Faillace Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at McGovern Medical School at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston. His research program focuses on identifying the neurobiological basis of mood disorders, particularly bipolar disorder, using translational approaches to understand the biological mechanisms driving cognitive decline, premature biological aging, and elevated suicide risk in individuals living with these conditions. By integrating molecular biomarkers, in vitro models, and clinical studies, Dr. Fries’ work aims to identify biologically informed targets for personalized and preventive interventions in depression and bipolar disorder.
Sanjay J. Mathew, MD | 2026 Senior Investigator Award
Sanjay J. Mathew, MD, is an Endowed Professor and Department Head of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Texas A&M University Naresh K. Vashisht College of Medicine. He has devoted the last 25 years to research, education, and the clinical care of patients with severe, treatment-resistant mood disorders. The major impact of his team’s work has been the development of novel drug therapy approaches for major depressive disorder, treatment-resistant depression (TRD), and related conditions (e.g., anxiety disorders and PTSD). Across multiple elegantly designed studies, Dr. Mathew explored novel drug mechanisms with compelling neurobiological rationale. By combining first-in-patient clinical trials with biomarker substudies (using sophisticated MRI and EEG techniques), his studies garnered key insights into depression pathophysiology and its therapeutic implications.
See a list of past Gerald L. Klerman Award Winners
DBSA Thanks the 2026 Gerald L. Klerman Sponsor
