Katalin Karikó University of Szeged, Hungary
Katalin Karikó is a Hungarian biochemist renowned for her pioneering research in messenger RNA (mRNA) technology. Born on January 17, 1955, in Szolnok, Hungary, she dedicated her scientific career to advancing RNA-based therapeutics. For decades, she focused on modifying mRNA to make it safe and effective for medical use, overcoming significant scientific and funding challenges. Her breakthrough discoveries enabled the rapid development of mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccines. In recognition of this transformative work, she was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 2023, shared with Drew Weissman. Her research has opened new possibilities for vaccines and treatments for infectious diseases, cancer, and other conditions. Karikó previously served as Senior Vice President at BioNTech, contributing to the development of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine. She is widely respected for her perseverance, innovation, and lasting impact on global public health.
