Maria Freire

Maria Freire headshot 2020

Maria C. Freire is a prominent biomedical scientist and philanthropist known for her contributions to the fields of immunology, virology, and global health. She has held various leadership positions in scientific and philanthropic organizations, significantly impacting the advancement of medical research and public health initiatives.

Early Life and Education

Maria Freire was born in Lima, Peru. She pursued her undergraduate studies at the Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, where she earned a degree in biology. Freire then moved to the United States to continue her education, obtaining a Ph.D. in biophysics from the University of Virginia.

Career

Early Career

Freire began her career as a researcher at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), where she focused on immunology and virology. Her work at the NIH contributed to the understanding of viral pathogenesis and the development of vaccines.

Leadership Roles

Freire has held several notable leadership positions throughout her career. She served as the Director of the Office of Technology Transfer at the NIH, where she was responsible for managing the commercialization of NIH research discoveries. She also served as the President and Executive Director of the Global Alliance for TB Drug Development, an organization dedicated to the development of new treatments for tuberculosis.

In 2012, Freire was appointed President of the Foundation for the National Institutes of Health (FNIH), where she played a crucial role in fostering public-private partnerships to advance biomedical research and improve public health.

Contributions to Science and Public Health

Freire's work has significantly impacted the fields of immunology and virology. She has been involved in the development of several important vaccines and has contributed to the global fight against infectious diseases. Her leadership in various organizations has helped to bridge the gap between scientific research and practical health solutions, benefiting millions of people worldwide.

Awards and Honors

Maria Freire has received numerous awards and honors for her contributions to science and public health. These include recognition from prestigious institutions and organizations for her leadership and impact on global health initiatives.

Personal Life

Freire is known for her dedication to mentoring young scientists and her commitment to advancing the role of women in science. She continues to be an influential figure in the scientific community, advocating for policies and initiatives that support medical research and public health.

See Also

• Immunology
• Virology
• Global health
• National Institutes of Health
• Foundation for the National Institutes of Health
• Tuberculosis