PD Dr. Evangelos D. Karousis is a Junior Group Leader and Lecturer at the Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Pharmacy at the University of Bern. He leads the Karousis Lab focused on mRNA translation mechanisms in health and disease, with particular emphasis on cell-free translation systems. His research is affiliated with the Multidisciplinary Center for Infectious Diseases (MCID) and the Swiss National Center of Competence in Research (NCCR) RNA & Disease. Dr. Karousis's research focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms of mRNA translation, particularly how viruses like coronaviruses manipulate host translation machinery. His work combines biochemical approaches , cell-free translation systems , and structural biology to investigate viral pathogenesis and host defense mechanisms. Key areas include: Cell-free translation from diverse human cell types Coronavirus Nsp1 protein mechanisms mRNA degradation pathways Viral RNA structures and translation regulation Host-pathogen interactions at the molecular level His recent publications demonstrate a strong focus on developing innovative cell-free translation systems and understanding coronavirus mechanisms. The work shows a clear trajectory toward developing broad-spectrum antiviral strategies based on fundamental insights into viral manipulation of host translation. Scientific recognition includes: Lecturer of the Year award from the Biology department at University of Bern Dr. Karousis actively mentors the next generation of scientists through his research group and teaching responsibilities. His lab collaborates extensively with Prof. Dr. Oliver Mühlemann's group and participates in the NCCR RNA & Disease network, receiving support from Swiss National Science Foundation funding. The Karousis Lab maintains active engagement with the international RNA biology community through conferences, workshops (including the annual Kandersteg RNA meetings), and collaborative projects. The lab's "cell-free translation enthusiast" approach has positioned it at the forefront of developing innovative methods for studying translation mechanisms.
