Since 1907, the Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene (RSTMH) has been dedicated to improving tropical medicine and global health. Through our network of members across the world, we facilitate research, share knowledge, guide lifelong careers, and drive impact.

As a respected Society at the heart of the tropical medicine and global health community, we connect people and organisations who work, or are interested in, these areas. We’re an independent organisation and have a unique role in convening diverse stakeholders from many sectors and disciplines.

We play a role in all stages of global health practice from initial research and development, publication and showcasing, implementation, debate, and impact.

Our work includes funding and disseminating multidisciplinary research through peer-reviewed journals and a calendar of meetings and events. We provide grants for UK and international research and travel scholarships, as well as awarding medals for excellence in practice and to recognise emerging talent.

Fellows and members of RSTMH are invited to nominate an RSTMH fellow or member to be awarded the Donald Mackay Medal 2018.  This medal is jointly held by the RSTMH and the American Society of Tropical Medicine & Hygiene (ASTMH). It is given out annually, in alternating years by RSTMH and ASTMH, and in 2024 this honour falls to RSTMH. 

Dr Donald Mackay, who was Deputy Director of the Ross Institute at the London School of Hygiene and tropical Medicine, died in 1981, after many years of outstanding work in tropical occupational health, especially on the tea plantations of South Asia. He was an outstanding physician, brilliant teacher, and man of the greatest integrity and commitment.   

The Medal is for outstanding work in tropical health, especially relating to improvements in the health of rural or urban workers in the tropics. Preference is given to suitable medically qualified candidates, but those in other disciplines are eligible. 

 The deadline for submissions is the 19th Of March, 5pm BST (British Summer Time). Complete submissions received after the deadline will not be considered. 

Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene