Peter Palese

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Peter Palese is an American virologist and professor known for his significant contributions to the field of influenza research. He is a professor and chair of the Department of Microbiology at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York City.

Early Life and Education

Peter Palese was born in Austria. He received his undergraduate degree in pharmacy and his Ph.D. in chemistry from the University of Vienna. He later moved to the United States to pursue postdoctoral research at the Roche Institute of Molecular Biology.

Career

Palese's research has focused on the genetics and molecular biology of RNA viruses, particularly the influenza virus. He is credited with pioneering the field of reverse genetics, which allows for the generation of recombinant viruses from cloned cDNA. This technology has been instrumental in the development of new vaccines and antiviral drugs.

Influenza Research

One of Palese's major contributions is the development of the first genetic map of the influenza A virus. His work has provided critical insights into the mechanisms of viral replication and pathogenesis. He has also studied the immune response to influenza and the development of universal influenza vaccines.

Academic Contributions

Peter Palese has published over 400 scientific papers and has been a mentor to numerous students and postdoctoral fellows. He has served on various editorial boards and has been a member of several scientific advisory committees.

Awards and Honors

Palese has received numerous awards for his contributions to virology, including the Robert Koch Prize, the Beijerinck Virology Prize, and the Sanofi-Institut Pasteur Award. He is a member of the National Academy of Sciences and the National Academy of Medicine.

Personal Life

Peter Palese resides in New York City and continues to be actively involved in research and teaching.

See Also

• Virology
• Influenza
• Reverse genetics
• Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai