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) 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 University of Pittsburgh Regional Biocontainment Laboratory (RBL) which is an integral part of the CVR was officially opened September 24, 2007. The laboratories are a vital component of the CVR, the umbrella institute that acts as the hub for host-pathogen interactions in the university. Funded through the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) the Pittsburgh RBL is part of a national network of fourteen biocontainment laboratories. This network focuses on developing countermeasures, such as vaccines, antibodies, and small molecules, to address the impact of emerging and reemerging infectious diseases of global importance. Pandemic preparedness lies at the center of the vision of CVR scientists.
Building on the University’s existing strengths in the study of virology, bacteriology, host pathogen interactions and immunology with an emphasis on emerging infections, the CVR engages a cross-section of scientists from an array of disciplines in infectious disease research. Under the leadership of Director Paul Duprex CVR has expanded its footprint in vaccine research and increased the number of world-class investigators who are full members of the physical institute over the last six years.
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 community; disciplinary interactions; visionary leadership; and a synergistic environment are among the unique features that contribute to the unparalleled potential of this world-class research institute.
