Michael S. Diamond, MD, PhD
DEPARTMENT OF MEDICINE
Professor of Medicine, of Molecular Microbiology and of Pathology and Immunology
Herbert S. Gasser Professor
2023 Dean’s Impact Award Recipient
Michael S. Diamond, MD, PhD, a pioneer in the study of globally emerging RNA viruses, quickly employed his expertise towards understanding SARS-CoV-2 pathogenesis and has worked tirelessly to enable life-saving vaccines and therapeutics. Early in the pandemic, he developed an animal model of SARS-CoV-2 that he made widely available while labs waited for ACE2 transgenic mouse colonies to be expanded. Since then, he has published over 100 leading papers on SARS-CoV-2, making important contributions in the development of monoclonal antibodies and novel vaccines that are under development. The Diamond laboratory leads efforts to study SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern. In the context of translational discoveries, it directly contributed to the discovery and characterization of the antibodies in Evusheld and Sotrovimab. It has also partnered with Moderna to develop and test bivalent vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 variants, including those granted emergency use authorization. In collaboration with David T. Curiel, MD, PhD, the Diamond laboratory developed and licensed a nasally delivered viral-vectored vaccine for prevention and reduction of transmission of SARS-CoV-2. It has been approved for use in India after phase 3 trials showed it to be safe and effective as a booster. Diamond and his team showed that this vaccine protected animals from not just disease but also infection, making it a candidate that could stem the spread and transmission of the virus. This vaccine exemplifies Diamond’s dedication to producing real solutions to viral diseases. In addition to being a rigorous and innovative scientist, he is a generous colleague and dedicated mentor.