Dr. Rino Rappuoli stands as a preeminent leader in global vaccine research and pandemic preparedness, currently serving as Scientific Director of the Fondazione Biotecnopolo di Siena, which includes the National Anti-Pandemic Center. With an extensive career spanning decades in both academic and industry settings, he previously held the position of Chief Scientist and Head of Global External R&D at GSK Vaccines while also serving as CEO of GSK Siena. His leadership has been instrumental in positioning Italy at the forefront of biotechnology research and pandemic response capabilities through the strategic development of the Biotecnopolo foundation. Dr. Rappuoli's expertise in vaccine development and immunology has established him as a critical figure in international health security discussions and initiatives.
Dr. Rappuoli's groundbreaking research has significantly advanced the fields of vaccinology and antimicrobial resistance, most notably through his recent work published in Nature that addresses the global crisis of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. His innovative approach targeting the bacterial capsule of Klebsiella pneumoniae with specific antibodies represents a paradigm shift in combating multidrug-resistant pathogens, demonstrating proven protection in preclinical models. This research, developed in collaboration with Marco Falcone from the University of Pisa, offers a concrete pathway to address the worldwide antimicrobial resistance crisis responsible for hundreds of thousands of deaths annually. His contributions extend beyond this single achievement, with multiple high-impact publications in leading scientific journals that have reshaped approaches to vaccine development and pandemic response strategies.
As a visionary leader, Dr. Rappuoli has played a pivotal role in establishing international networks for pandemic preparedness, with the Italian government designating the Biotecnopolo as the cornerstone of defense against future pandemics. His recent recognition by the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases in Washington, where he joined esteemed predecessors including Anthony Fauci, Stanley Plotkin, and Paul Offit, underscores his global impact and standing as the first Italian scientist to receive this prestigious honor. Under his guidance, the Biotecnopolo foundation is coordinating European anti-pandemic networks and advancing research in vaccine development, monoclonal antibodies, and pathogen surveillance. Dr. Rappuoli continues to drive forward the mission of creating robust scientific and technological capabilities to protect populations from emerging epidemic and pandemic threats, positioning his work at the critical intersection of biotechnology, public health, and global security.
