Paulo H. Verardi

Paulo H. Verardi serves as Department Head and Professor of Virology and Vaccinology in the Department of Pathobiology at the University of Connecticut (UConn), where he also holds an investigator position at the Center of Excellence for Vaccine Research (CEVR). Since joining UConn as an Assistant Professor in 2008, he has established himself as a leading researcher in viral vector development and emerging disease countermeasures.

His academic credentials include a PhD in Comparative Pathology (Molecular Virology) from the University of California, Davis and a BS in Biological Sciences from Brazil's Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul.

Dr. Verardi's research program spans vaccine development for human and animal diseases, with specialized focus on recombinant viral vectors (particularly vaccinia virus), viral immunomodulation, and rapid-response platforms for emerging threats. His work integrates molecular virology, synthetic biology, and One Health principles to address biodefense challenges, zoonotic diseases, and vector-borne pathogens including Zika virus, SARS-CoV-2, and Powassan virus.

His professional recognition includes the American Society for Microbiology's 2013 Outstanding Service Award to the Committee on Global Engagement.

As an active NIH grant reviewer since 2005, Dr. Verardi contributes to national research funding decisions while mentoring students through courses in viral pathogenesis, immunobiology, and emerging infectious diseases. He maintains leadership roles in the American Society for Virology, ASM, American Association of Immunologists, and American Society of Gene & Cell Therapy.

At the Center of Excellence for Vaccine Research, he directs a multidisciplinary team developing next-generation vaccine platforms with applications in both human and veterinary medicine.