The Daily

The Unlikely Pioneer Behind mRNA Vaccines

Jun 10, 2021

Dr. Katalin Kariko, a biochemist pivotal in mRNA vaccine research, shares her inspiring journey from Hungary to the U.S. She faced significant challenges for decades but persevered, ultimately contributing to COVID-19 vaccines. Alongside science and medicine reporter Gina Kolata, they discuss her groundbreaking research, the emotional rollercoaster of scientific discovery, and the chance collaboration that transformed her work into life-saving technology. The conversation highlights the importance of resilience and innovation in times of crisis.

34:04

Creator website

Episode guests

Gina Kolata

Katalin Karikó

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Episode notes

Intro

4min

The Path to mRNA Breakthrough and Overcoming Challenges

6min

Navigating Challenges After a Scientific Breakthrough

4min

From Setbacks to mRNA Breakthroughs

11min

A Triumph in Vaccine Development

9min

Biden Administration's Vaccine Agreement and Overseas Diplomacy

2min

When she was at graduate school in the 1970s, Dr. Katalin Kariko learned about something that would become a career-defining obsession: mRNA.

She believed in the potential of the molecule, but for decades ran up against institutional roadblocks. Then, the coronavirus hit and her obsession would help shield millions from a once-in-a-century pandemic.

Today, a conversation with Dr. Kariko about her journey.

Guest: Gina Kolata, a reporter covering science and medicine for The New York Times.

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Background reading:

Collaborating with devoted colleagues, Dr. Kariko laid the groundwork for the mRNA vaccines turning the tide of the pandemic.

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