About

Although there have been tremendous advances in the diagnosis and treatment of many medical conditions, infectious diseases remain the leading cause of deaths world-wide. Few discoveries in biomedical research are as important as those that revolve around the development of new diagnostics, therapeutics, and vaccines for infectious agents that pose risks to global public health and global security. The Center for Vaccine Research (CVR) at the University of Pittsburgh was established to address this imperative.

The CVR is housed in the Biomedical Science Tower 3 (BST3), which is located on the main campus of the University of Pittsburgh — one of the nation’s leading research institutions. The CVR is composed of two components — the Vaccine Research Laboratory (VRL) and the Regional Biocontainment Laboratory (RBL) — and boasts 18,000 square feet of laboratory and office space.

Building on the University’s existing strengths in the study of virology and immunology with an emphasis on emerging infections and HIV, the CVR engages a cross-section of scientists from an array of disciplines in infectious disease research. Under the leadership of interim Director Saleem A. Khan, PhD, the CVR is expanding its footprint in the area of vaccine research and development by expanding its team of world-class investigators.

The CVR activities span basic research on molecular mechanisms of infectious diseases to the development of diagnostics, therapeutics, and vaccines. Moreover, the CVR supports interdisciplinary research efforts across the University and University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) focused on emerging infections that threaten human health.

A balance of basic, translational, and clinical research; emphasis on collegiate interaction; visionary leadership; and a synergistic environment are among the unique features that contribute to the unparalleled potential of this world-class research center.