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Vincent Racaniello wears a black shirt on a black background. He smiles slyly.

Microbiology Berg lecture: "Pivoting from poliovirus to podcasts"

By the College of Science

From decoding how viruses invade cells to reshaping how science reaches the public, Vincent Racaniello has spent decades at the forefront of virology — and continues to influence how we understand infectious disease today. Racaniello brings a rare combination of groundbreaking research and modern science communication to the forefront of microbiology.

Please join the Department of Microbiology as it hosts Racaniello, Higgins Professor of Microbiology and Immunology at Columbia University, for an upcoming lecture, "Pivoting from poliovirus to podcasts."

Racaniello spent over 40 years researching poliovirus. His laboratory identified the cellular receptor for the virus and created a transgenic mouse model for poliomyelitis. Having always wanted a second career, he discovered podcasting in 2008 and now oversees MicrobeTV, Inc, which produces podcasts in the field of virology, microbiology, parasitology, immunology, neuroscience, and much more. Racaniello is widely recognized for his contributions to virology research and education, including pioneering work on RNA viruses and decades of training the next generation of scientists. His laboratory at Columbia University has investigated a range of medically important viruses, advancing understanding of viral replication and disease mechanisms. Hear how his work in virology led him to a varied career in dynamic science communication.

2026 Berg Lecture

Date: Thursday, May 21, 2026
Time: 5:15 – 6:15 p.m.
Location: The LaSells Stewart Center, Construction & Engineering Hall
Please register to attend

A reception will follow the lecture.

The Department of Microbiology would like to thank alumni Ron and Ann Berg for the generous gift that endowed this lecture series.

About the speaker:

Racaniello is widely recognized for pioneering contributions to molecular virology, including the development of the first infectious clone of an animal RNA virus — a breakthrough that transformed the study of viral genetics and pathogenesis. His research has advanced fundamental understanding of how viruses replicate and interact with host cells, work that continues to shape modern approaches to infectious disease and global health.


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