Gao George Fu

George Fu Gao is a leading virologist and immunologist serving as Director-General of China CDC and Vice President of the National Natural Science Foundation of China. He holds professorships at the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) and University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (UCAS). His research focuses on viral evolution, pathogen entry mechanisms, and public health interventions for emerging infectious diseases. During the COVID-19 pandemic, his team rapidly isolated SARS-CoV-2 and provided critical support for China's containment efforts. He leads global health initiatives like CEPI and Africa CDC capacity-building. Key roles include:

• Director-General, China CDC (2017–present)
• Dean, Savaid Medical School, UCAS (2015–2017)
• Professor, CAS Institute of Microbiology (2004–present)

Education highlights include postdoctoral research at Oxford University (1998–2001) and Harvard University (1999–2001). His research spans structural biology applications to pathogen studies, including Ebola, Zika, and influenza viruses. Awards include NAS Foreign Associate membership (2019), Leopoldina membership (2020), and TWAS Prize (2012).

Publications reflect cross-disciplinary contributions to virology, immunology, and public health. Major achievements include designing universal coronavirus vaccines and clarifying viral transmission mechanisms. His labs focus on structural biology, antiviral therapies, and global pandemic preparedness.