Zhang Yongzhen

Professor_Zhang_Yongzhen_winning_2020_ICG-15_GigaScience_Prize_for_Outstanding_Data_Sharing_during_the_COVID-19_Pandemic

Zhang Yongzhen (Chinese: 张永振) is a Chinese virologist known for his significant contributions to the field of virology, particularly in the sequencing of the SARS-CoV-2 genome, the virus responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic.

Early Life and Education

Zhang Yongzhen was born in China. He pursued his higher education in the field of virology and obtained his degree from a prestigious university in China. His early research focused on various viral infections and their genetic makeup.

Career

Zhang Yongzhen has held several prominent positions in various research institutions. He is best known for his work at the Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center and the School of Public Health at Fudan University.

Sequencing of SARS-CoV-2

On January 5, 2020, Zhang Yongzhen and his team successfully sequenced the genome of the novel coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2. This groundbreaking work was crucial in understanding the virus and developing diagnostic tests, treatments, and vaccines. The sequence was shared with the global scientific community on January 11, 2020, which accelerated the global response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Awards and Recognition

Zhang Yongzhen has received numerous awards and accolades for his contributions to virology and public health. His work has been widely recognized by the scientific community and has had a profound impact on global health.

Related Pages

• Virology
• SARS-CoV-2
• COVID-19 pandemic
• Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center
• Fudan University

See Also

• Public health
• Viral genome sequencing
• Epidemiology