A New Era for Vaccine Innovation

In a groundbreaking move for medical research, Dr. Stefan Kappe is set to lead the University of Maryland School of Medicine’s Center for Vaccine Development and Global Health (CVD) starting early next year. This announcement was made by Dean Mark T. Gladwin, MD, on September 9, marking a pivotal moment in the fight against malaria and other infectious diseases.

Meet the New Director

An esteemed figure in the realm of parasitology and immunology, Dr. Kappe has a robust academic presence as a professor and associate vice chair of basic science research at the University of Washington in Seattle. He holds a senior position at the Center for Global Infectious Disease Research at Seattle Children's Research Institute, where he has made significant strides in advancing malaria research.

Revolutionizing Malaria Vaccines

Dr. Kappe is renowned for his pioneering work in genetic engineering of parasites that has paved the way for an innovative malaria vaccine. This groundbreaking vaccine has already showcased its ability to provide substantial protection against malaria in preclinical and clinical studies, a major leap forward in public health.

Future Plans and Leadership Transition

As Dr. Kappe prepares to take the helm of CVD, Dr. James Campbell will continue as interim director until his arrival. Campbell temporarily filled this role after Dr. Miriam Laufer stepped down earlier this year. Under their guidance, CVD has remained at the forefront of vaccine research.

Research Focus and Funding Achievements

Dr. Kappe’s research group delves into the intricate biology of malaria parasites and the immune responses they evoke, aiming to develop revolutionary interventions beyond current treatments. His innovative work has attracted over $34 million in funding from the National Institutes of Health and organizations like the Gates Foundation since 2003. These funds bolster research on live-attenuated pathogens, targeting malaria-causing parasites, and exploring their longevity in the human liver.

A Renowned Scholar in Malaria Research

With an impressive h-index of 65 and over 6,300 citations, Dr. Kappe has made substantial contributions to the field, publishing more than 280 works, including key reviews on malaria’s biology and vaccine strategies.

A Vision for Global Health

Dean Gladwin emphasized Dr. Kappe’s unwavering commitment to developing a highly effective malaria vaccine, addressing a global health crisis that inflicts millions each year. His expertise, alongside a commitment to mentoring, positions CVD as a leader in combating malaria and other emerging pandemics exacerbated by climate change. "This is not just research; it’s a mission to save lives worldwide," he stated.