ICRG Renames Scientific Achievement Award In Honour Of Dr Howard J. Shaffer

The International Center for Responsible Gaming (ICRG) has renamed its Scientific Achievement Award in honour of Dr Howard J. Shaffer, recognising more than four decades of work within gambling and addiction research. The award will now be known as the Howard J. Shaffer Scientific Achievement Award following unanimous endorsement from the organisation’s independent Scientific Advisory Board (SAB).

Shaffer has played a prominent role in developing scientific understanding of gambling disorder and responsible gambling throughout his career. His research has covered areas including addiction frameworks, the epidemiology of gambling disorder and the development of screening and assessment tools, while also examining the relationship between biological, psychological, behavioural and societal factors.

Scientific Advisory Board Recognises Shaffer’s Contribution

Dr Linda Cottler, chair of the ICRG Scientific Advisory Board, said the decision reflected both Shaffer’s contribution to gambling research and the influence his work has had on subsequent generations of researchers.

“For more than four decades, Dr. Howard J. Shaffer has helped shape the scientific understanding of gambling disorder, addiction, and responsible gambling,” Cottler said. “His pioneering research has transformed how clinicians, researchers, policymakers, regulators, and industry stakeholders understand gambling-related harms and has inspired generations of investigators around the world.

“The Scientific Advisory Board named this award in his honor so future generations of researchers will understand the remarkable foundation upon which today's science has been built.”

Alongside his academic work, the ICRG highlighted Shaffer’s contribution as a mentor within the field. The organisation said many established gambling researchers have either trained under Shaffer or been influenced by his scholarship, extending the impact of his work beyond his own research and publications.

Shaffer’s Longstanding Relationship With ICRG

Shaffer has maintained a relationship with the ICRG spanning several decades, serving as a member of its Scientific Advisory Board as well as contributing as a conference speaker, collaborator and adviser. His involvement has supported the organisation’s work to promote independent, peer-reviewed research designed to improve the prevention and treatment of gambling-related harm and responsible gambling practices.

The newly renamed award will retain its existing purpose, recognising individuals whose research has significantly advanced scientific understanding of gambling disorder and responsible gambling. Recipients will continue to be recognised for innovation, scientific excellence and research considered to have made a lasting contribution to the field.

ICRG To Honour Shaffer At Las Vegas Conference

The ICRG will formally recognise Shaffer and the renamed award at its 27th Annual ICRG Conference on Gambling and Addiction, which will take place in Las Vegas on 27-28 September 2026. A special announcement and tribute are planned during the conference to acknowledge his scientific work, longstanding association with the organisation and influence as a mentor.

The permanent renaming of the Scientific Achievement Award will ensure Shaffer’s name remains associated with future recognition of research in gambling disorder and responsible gambling. The ICRG said the move is intended to celebrate a legacy that has helped shape the field and continues to influence researchers working within it today.