The Prize — one of the most prestigious in genetics — was awarded to Lehmann and fellow developmental biologists James Priess (Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center) and Geraldine Seydoux (Johns Hopkins University). It recognized their discoveries on the molecular mechanisms underlying the earliest stages of embryonic development — findings that have transformed germ cell biology and helped answer the fundamental question of how germ cells faithfully transmit genetic information across generations. The trio’s findings, the Gruber Foundation noted, have helped to revolutionize modern developmental biology. Lehmann also received the Vanderbilt Prize in Biomedical Science, awarded by the Vanderbilt University Medical Center. That award recognizes women scientists with a stellar record of research accomplishments who also have made significant contributions to mentoring other women in science. Lehmann was honored for both her determination to solve the deepest mysteries of life and her career-long efforts to mentor students and research fellows — for example, by developing a mentorship program that encourages and empowers junior faculty in science.