Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory’s Dinner Raises Over $7 Million for Research

On November 19, 2025, the Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory (CSHL) hosted its 20th annual Double Helix Medals dinner at the American Museum of Natural History in New York City. The prestigious event raised over $7 million to support CSHL’s initiatives in biological research and education. CBS journalist Lesley Stahl emceed the gala, which honored tennis icons and cancer advocates Chris Evert and Martina Navratilova, alongside biotechnology pioneer Dr. Robert Langer.

Both Evert and Navratilova are celebrated for their remarkable tennis careers, each winning 18 Grand Slam singles titles. Their journeys took a different turn as they faced cancer diagnoses, which they approached with the same determination that characterized their athletic careers. “We both realize we have such an opportunity to spread the good word,” Navratilova stated, emphasizing the importance of advocacy in cancer research and prevention. “If you feel something, do something. Don’t sit on it. Chris is the living example of that.”

Evert shared her experience with genetic testing, expressing gratitude for the proactive measures that contributed to her health. “If I hadn’t had genetic testing, I wouldn’t be here,” she remarked, encouraging others to prioritize their health by seeking medical advice.

Celebrating Groundbreaking Contributions to Science

Dr. Robert Langer, a prominent figure in biomedical engineering and one of only nine MIT Institute Professors, was also honored at the dinner. His pioneering research has led to significant advancements, including the isolation of the first angiogenesis inhibitors, which have paved the way for new treatments for cancer and blindness. Langer has been instrumental in developing nanoparticles and microparticles for effective drug delivery, including nucleic acids. His innovations have also contributed to the field of tissue engineering, facilitating the creation of artificial skin for burn victims.

“I’m proudest of my students,” Langer noted. “They’ve done amazing things and keep training the next generations. I hope I’m remembered as a person who challenged conventional wisdom in science and engineering and made discoveries and inventions that ended up changing the world.”

The event was chaired by a distinguished group of leaders, including Mrs. Jeanne Moutoussamy-Ashe, Ms. Jamie Nicholls, and Mr. O. Francis Biondi, among others. Their collective efforts underscore the commitment to advancing biomedical research and education through collaboration and philanthropy.

Since its inception in 2006, the Double Helix Medals dinner has raised over $80 million to bolster CSHL’s research and educational programs. This financial support plays a critical role in advancing scientific discoveries that have the potential to impact health and medicine globally.

About Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory

Founded in 1890, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory has been at the forefront of contemporary biomedical research and education. The institution specializes in cancer, neuroscience, plant biology, and quantitative biology, employing about 1,000 individuals, including 600 scientists, students, and technicians. Notably, CSHL is home to eight Nobel Prize winners, reflecting its status as a leader in scientific innovation. For more information, visit www.cshl.edu.