Kissmekia Corbett-Helaire
#womenshistoryProfiles
Dr. Kizzmekia S. Corbett-Helaire is an American viral immunologist who played a crucial role in the development of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine.
Corbett-Helaire grew up with a passion for science and a determination to make a difference in public health. She earned her undergraduate degree in Biological Sciences from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC), where she graduated magna cum laude. She went on to earn her Ph.D. in Microbiology and Immunology at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
As a graduate student, Corbett-Helaire’ss research focused on developing novel vaccine strategies for emerging viral pathogens, particularly coronaviruses. Her work caught the attention of Dr. Barney Graham of the Vaccine Research Center (VRC) at the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), who invited her to join his team as a postdoctoral fellow in 2014.
Corbett-Helaire’ss collaboration with Dr. Graham and their team at the VRC was instrumental in the rapid development of a COVID-19 vaccine. She played a key role in designing the mRNA-based vaccine platform that served as the foundation for the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine. Her expertise in viral immunology and vaccine development helped guide the preclinical research and clinical trials that led to the successful authorization of the vaccine for emergency use.
In addition to her contributions to vaccine research, Corbett-Helaire has been a vocal advocate for diversity and inclusion in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields. She has spoken out about the importance of representation and mentorship for underrepresented minority students pursuing careers in science.
Kizzmekia Corbett-Helaire’s groundbreaking work on the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine has earned her widespread recognition and acclaim. In 2021, she was named one of TIME magazine’s 100 most influential people in the world for her contributions to science and public health.