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TORONTO (April 13, 2026)—The Society of Interventional Radiology (SIR) Foundation presented the Leader in Innovation Award to Bradford Johns Wood, MD, FSIR, a visiting professor in oncology and diagnostic and interventional radiology (IR) at the University of Milan, senior vice president for DeepSight Technology and adjunct professor of biomedical engineering at the University of Maryland. The award was presented April 12, during SIR’s Annual Scientific Meeting in Toronto.

“Through his pioneering work at the intersection of image‑guided therapy, engineering and oncology, Dr. Wood has consistently pushed the boundaries of what is possible for patient care,” said Clifford R. Weiss, MD, FSIR, the 2025–26 chair of the SIR Foundation. “His vision, creativity and commitment to translating technology into meaningful clinical impact have inspired clinicians and researchers around the world.”

Support for research honored
During the SIR Foundation Gala on April 12, SIR Foundation also recognized Barry T. Katzen, MD, FSIR, the founder and chief medical executive emeritus of the Miami Cardiac and Vascular Institute, with the Frederick S. Keller, MD, Philanthropy Award, which honors an individual who demonstrates outstanding commitment to SIR Foundation through their exceptional generosity and work to inspire others to give. 

“Dr. Barry Katzen’s leadership and generosity have had a transformative impact on the SIR Foundation and on the future of interventional radiology,” said Weiss. “His unwavering commitment to supporting research, education and mentorship has helped expand opportunities for investigators and clinicians around the world. By leading through example and inspiring others to give, Dr. Katzen has strengthened our mission and advanced the care we are able to provide to patients.”

Future researchers and pivotal mentors also spotlighted
The Dr. Gary J. Becker Young Investigator Award recognizes promising young practitioners to support the pursuit of academic careers. This year’s recipient is Niraj Pandey, MD, DM an interventional radiologist and assistant professor at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi. He is being recognized for his clinical science manuscript, ““Transarterial Embolization Using Imipenem/Cilastatin Sodium for Chronic Painful Achilles Tendinopathy Refractory to Conservative Management.” Pandey will receive his award during a ceremony on April 14.

The inaugural Dr. Barry T. Katzen Master Clinician Award will be bestowed upon John Fritz Angle, MD, FSIR, is a professor of radiology and medical imaging and the division director of vascular and interventional radiology at the University of Virginia, Charlottesville, during a ceremony on April 14. The new award honors an IR who exemplifies dedication to clinical practice, patient care, diligence in their work and continuous improvement within the field as well as who has made a demonstrable impact at their institution or practice as a result.