WesternU’s Dr. Michel Baudry receives France’s National Order of Merit for his contributions to science and international collaboration
Western University of Health Sciences College of Dental Medicine Professor Michel Baudry, PhD, received the Insignia of Chevalier de l’Ordre National du Mérite, a prestigious honor bestowed by France to acknowledge his contributions to understanding the mechanisms of learning and memory and for bridging the scientific communities of France and the U.S.
Dr. Baudry’s contributions to the field of neuroscience have not only advanced our understanding of the human brain, but also strengthened the ties between France and the U.S., Adrien Frier, Consul General of France in Los Angeles, said when presenting the National Order of Merit award. He has more than 400 peer-reviewed publications and is among the 100 most cited neuroscientists, according to the Institute for Scientific Information database.
“Beyond your scientific accomplishments, and as you can see there are many of them, you have been a tireless advocate for Franco-American cooperation. Your efforts in fostering scientific exchanges and your constant support to the endeavors by the Office of Science and Technology here at the Consulate in Los Angeles have been instrumental in strengthening the bonds between the scientific communities of our two nations,” Frier said. “Your dedication to mentoring and nurturing the next generation of great scientists reflects your belief in the power of education and collaboration. You have shown by your career by your actions that science is not only just about discovery, but also about building relationships and fostering a sense of community that transcends border.”
Baudry received the award surrounded by family, friends and colleagues, including his mentor, Dr. Gary Lynch. Baudry earned his PhD from University Paris VII in 1977, and then joined Dr. Lynch’s lab as a postdoctoral fellow in 1978. He joined the UC Irvine faculty in 1981 and then moved to USC in 1989. He joined WesternU in 2012 and has continued his research into the roles of calpain-1 and calpain-2 in synaptic plasticity and neurodegeneration.
“Receiving this award from the French government is a tremendous honor and a deeply rewarding recognition of the dedication and effort I have devoted throughout my professional career,” Baudry said. “I am especially gratified that it underscores the value of scientific research – a pursuit that, despite its many challenges, advances our understanding of the world and leads to discoveries that benefit humanity.”
The French Consulate in Santa Monica organizes meetings of the French scientific community on the West Coast. Baudry has attended these meetings and gatherings from more than 25 years.
Dr. Baudry recently published a book, The Silent Epidemic: Quest For a Cure, with co-author Stella Sung, chronicling his distinguished academic career and scientific pursuits. The book is available for purchase at Barnes & Noble and Amazon.
“Dr. Michel Baudry is a brilliant scientist whose groundbreaking work has significantly advanced modern neuroscience and deepened our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying learning and memory. He is also a prolific inventor, holding multiple patents for promising treatments targeting traumatic brain injury and neurodegenerative diseases,” said WesternU Senior Vice President of Research and Biotechnology Andrea Giuffrida, PhD, MBA. “I believe his career exemplifies the power of global collaboration. Dr. Baudry’s work reminds us that science has no borders, and it really thrives when diverse perspectives and cultures come together.”
“Dr. Baudry’s receipt of the National Order of Merit is an example of the caliber of scientific inquiry and global partnership we strive to foster at WesternU CDM,” said CDM Dean Elizabeth Andrews, DDS, MS. “His visionary work not only advances critical fields of research but also exemplifies the spirit of international collaboration that strengthens academia across borders. We are proud to celebrate this moment alongside him.”
