Exhibition on mRNA Vaccine Pioneer Katalin Karikó Opens in Vienna

A new exhibition on the life and pioneering research of Hungarian biochemist Katalin Karikó has opened at the Josephinum Medical History Museum in Vienna. Entitled “Forever Forward,” the show pays tribute to the Nobel Prize winner, whose work made a significant contribution to the development of mRNA technology and thus to COVID-19 vaccines.

Markus Müller, Rector of the Medical University of Vienna, which runs the museum, described Katalin Karikó as an “icon of science” and a “unique role model for perseverance.”

The exhibition explores the path of the Hungarian scientist from her studies in Hungary to her revolutionary discoveries.

At the opening, Karikó, Professor at the University of Szeged, emphasized the wide range of possible applications of mRNA technology. Over 150 clinical studies are currently underway, focusing on infectious diseases and cancer. She sees major challenges in the field of cancer research in particular, as there is often a lack of clear target structures on tumor cells.

The scientist also spoke about the importance of the awards she has received that make it possible to draw attention to science. She emphasized her relentless curiosity and desire for scientific knowledge as her main driving force. She also commented on the possible reduction of research funding in the United States, but stressed that research on mRNA will continue, if necessary in Europe. She also pleaded for scientific results to be communicated to the public in an understandable way.

Until May 31, the exhibition at the Josephinum presents exhibits from the collection of the Szeged University Library, including photos, documents, research objects, and awards that Karikó has made available to her alma mater. Visitors can gain insight into her student days, her early research years, and her collaboration with Nobel Prize winner Drew Weissman. A pipette she once used and ampoules of the COVID-19 vaccine are also on display.

In addition to the exhibition, Karikó was awarded an honorary doctorate and the Semmelweis Medal by the Medical University of Vienna in honor of her life’s work and her outstanding contribution to science.

The award was presented to the Nobel Prize winner by Markus Müller and Cristoph Huber, Professor of Medicine and co-founder of BioNTech.

The exhibition is to be shown in other European cities in the future and will be supplemented by a virtual, four-language format (Hungarian, English, German, and French).

Via MTI, Featured image: MTI/Filep István