In May 2016 Professor Irene Krämer was awarded the Cross of the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany (Bundesverdienstkreuz) in recognition of her outstanding work in pharmacy.

Professor Krämer is a frequent contributor to HPE and many readers will be aware of her work. She has been the Director of Pharmacy at the University Hospital in Mainz since 1991. She is well-known for developing high-quality clinical pharmacy services and for her rigorous scientific research. She has supervised – and inspired - many PhD students. She has also been active in the German Society for Hospital Pharmacists (ADKA) and has served as president of the organisation.