Derrick Rossi

Derrick Rossi 2

Derrick Rossi is a Canadian stem cell biologist and entrepreneur. He is best known for his pioneering work in the field of mRNA technology, which has had significant implications for vaccine development, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Early Life and Education

Rossi was born in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. He completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Toronto, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Molecular Genetics. He then pursued a PhD in Molecular Biology at the University of Helsinki in Finland.

Career

After completing his PhD, Rossi conducted postdoctoral research at the Stanford University School of Medicine in California, where he focused on stem cell biology. His research led to significant advancements in the understanding of pluripotent stem cells.

Moderna Therapeutics

In 2010, Rossi co-founded Moderna Therapeutics, a biotechnology company that specializes in the development of mRNA-based therapies. The company's innovative approach to using mRNA to instruct cells to produce proteins has been groundbreaking, particularly in the development of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine.

Other Ventures

Rossi has also been involved in other entrepreneurial ventures, including the founding of Intellia Therapeutics, a company focused on CRISPR gene-editing technology, and Magenta Therapeutics, which aims to revolutionize stem cell transplantation.

Awards and Recognition

Rossi's contributions to science and medicine have been widely recognized. He has received numerous awards, including the Top 100 Global Thinkers by Foreign Policy magazine and the Canadian Health Researcher of the Year award.

Personal Life

Rossi resides in Boston, Massachusetts, with his family. He continues to be actively involved in scientific research and entrepreneurial activities.

See Also

• Stem cell
• mRNA
• Moderna COVID-19 vaccine
• CRISPR
• Pluripotent stem cells