Dr. Josef Smolen is a distinguished Austrian rheumatologist and immunologist whose pioneering work has profoundly shaped modern approaches to rheumatic diseases. He currently holds the position of Professor Emeritus at the Medical University of Vienna, where he previously served as Chairman of the Department of Internal Medicine III and the Division of Rheumatology at the Vienna General Hospital until 2018. Born in Vienna in 1950, he completed his medical education at the University of Vienna, earning his doctorate in January 1975 following studies at the Bundesrealgymnasium I Stubenbastei. His early career included significant research at the Institute of Immunology at the University of Vienna and a formative fellowship at the National Institutes of Health in Bethesda, Maryland, where he worked with Alfred D. Steinberg from 1980 to 1981.
Professor Smolen's groundbreaking research has focused on the pathogenesis and therapy of rheumatic diseases, particularly rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus, with significant contributions to cellular immunology and autoantibody research. His work has been instrumental in developing new medications and advancing biologic therapies, notably influencing the Treat-to-Target concept that has transformed clinical management of rheumatoid arthritis globally. With an extensive publication record exceeding 450 original articles, reviews, and essays, he has established himself as one of the most cited researchers in rheumatology, as evidenced by his ranking as the most cited scientist in German-speaking rheumatology in 2011. His research on the Dickkopf-1 gene as a regulator of joint changes, published in 2007, stands among the most influential works in the field, demonstrating his ability to bridge molecular discoveries with clinical applications.
Beyond his research achievements, Professor Smolen has provided exceptional leadership in the international rheumatology community through his presidency of the European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) from 2003 to 2005 and other prominent roles including President of the Austrian Society for Rheumatology and Rehabilitation. His election to the Austrian Academy of Sciences in 2005 and the German Academy of Natural Scientists Leopoldina in 2007 reflects the profound impact of his work on the broader scientific community. The recognition of his contributions extends internationally, as demonstrated by the honorary doctorate awarded by the University of Leiden, acknowledging his transformative influence on rheumatology worldwide. In his emeritus role, Professor Smolen continues to shape the field through mentorship, editorial work, and ongoing research, ensuring that his legacy of excellence in rheumatology and immunology endures for future generations of clinicians and scientists.
