The American Society of Nephrology (ASN) has awarded Dr. Michelle A. Josephson, MD, FASN, the prestigious Barbara T. Murphy Lifetime Achievement Award for Transformative Impact in Transplant Nephrology. This award recognizes her extraordinary contributions to the field of nephrology and her commitment to innovations, leadership, and mentorship in transplant medicine.
Dr. Josephson has long embodied what this award means. In the beginning of her career, being one of the few women in nephrology and transplant; she has demonstrated both visionary leadership and a deep sense of purpose in shaping the future of transplant nephrology. She founded the University of Chicago's transplant nephrology program in 1992 and led it as Medical Director for over three decades. Under her guidance, she also launched the transplant nephrology fellowship, which continues to train and inspire the next generation of specialists. She currently serves as the Director of Education for the University of Chicago Transplant Institute and Program Director of the transplant nephrology fellowship.
The Murphy Award celebrates individuals who forge new paths and inspire through creativity, courage, and resilience. Dr. Josephson has dedicated her unwavering efforts to addressing the gaps in post-transplant care and outcomes, as well she has worked towards advancing areas such as pregnancy after transplant, BK nephropathy, and post-transplant bone disease.
Beyond her institutional influence, Dr. Josephson has held numerous national and international leadership roles, including president of ASN and Women in Nephrology, chair of the ASN Policy and Advocacy Committee, and member of boards for KDIGO, AST, and ABIM. Her advocacy has shaped national transplant training and policy, reflecting the Murphy Award’s emphasis on service, determination, and long-term vision.
Dr. Josephson’s mentorship and academic leadership have been recognized with multiple awards, including those from the American Society of Transplantation, the University of Chicago Department of Medicine, and the National Kidney Foundation of Illinois.
With this honor, Dr. Josephson joins the ranks of nephrology's most impactful leaders like Dr. Barbara T. Murphy, using intellect, creativity, and tenacity to elevate the field and inspire generations to come.