On Saturday, April 16, Dr. Katalin Karikó, a researcher at BioNTech who was instrumental to the development of the mRNA vaccines that are now used throughout the world to stop the spread of COVID-19, and H.E. Dr. Norbert Palanovics, Ambassador of Hungary, visited Mita campus to meet with President Itoh and Vice-President Amagai.
Dr. Karikó is a recipient of the 26th Keio Medical Science Prize, an award which honors researchers who have made creative breakthroughs and contributions to scientific progress especially through research in medical and life sciences. Her work in the area of messenger RNA vaccines has not only been instrumental in combating COVID-19 but is also renowned for revolutionizing the way that vaccines may be developed in the future.
During her visit to Keio University, Dr. Karikó learned some of the Mita campus's rich history and traditions during a tour that included the Old Library, its stained-glass windows, and the Mita Public Speaking Hall. During the exchange that followed, the attending parties discussed ways to promote scientific discovery and technology in the future.