Sidney Pestka, MD, professor and chair of the Department of Molecular Genetics, Microbiology and Immunology at UMDNJ-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, received the 2001 National Medal of Technology from President George W. Bush in June 2002. The award, the nation’s highest achievement for technology, was given for Pestka’s "pioneering achievements that led to the development
of the biotechnology industry, to the first recombinant interferons for the treatment of cancers, leukemias, viral diseases such as hepatitis B and C, and multiple sclerosis; to fundamental technologies leading to other biotherapeutics; and for basic scientific discoveries in chemistry, biochemistry, genetic engineering and molecular biology from protein biosynthesis to receptors and cell signaling."

Pestka’s research on interferon began in 1969, when he became intrigued by the possibility that a single medicine, interferon, could treat all viral diseases. After careful evaluation of the scientific basis and potential of interferon, he decided to commit resources to pursue this research. His efforts paid off, and in 1986, the interferon he developed was approved by the FDA. Today, his work is the basis of several U.S. and more than 100 foreign patents. It has led to the commercialization of interferons to treat a variety of diseases, including hepatitis B and C, which affect more than 300 million people worldwide, as well as other viral diseases, cancers and multiple sclerosis.

The scientist’s work with interferon continues. In 1990 he founded PBL Biomedical Laboratories, a biotechnology company which is currently working to develop "ultra-interferons," drugs which are up to 30 times more potent than the current interferon drugs. PBL’s Sustained Release Protein Delivery technology delivers interferon directly to tumors and releases it slowly, over time. These technologies, which Pestka hopes to bring to the market within six years, will lead to more effective cancer treatments with dramatically reduced side effects.

The National Medal of Technology recognizes those who "embody the spirit of American innovation and have advanced the nation’s global competitiveness."