When the COVID-19 pandemic brought the world to a standstill, Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett emerged as a beacon of hope. As a viral immunologist at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), she played a pivotal role in the development of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine, which became one of the first and most effective vaccines in the fight against the virus.
Born in Hurdle Mills, North Carolina, Dr. Corbett's journey to scientific excellence began early. She earned her PhD in microbiology and immunology from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, demonstrating a passion for infectious diseases and vaccine development.
In early 2020, when the novel coronavirus began to spread globally, Dr. Corbett and her team worked tirelessly to develop a vaccine using mRNA technology. Their groundbreaking work resulted in a vaccine that not only saved lives but also showcased the power of Black excellence in science and medicine.
Beyond her scientific achievements, Dr. Corbett has become a strong advocate for vaccine education and equity, particularly in marginalized communities. She understands the historical mistrust of medical institutions among Black and minority populations and has used her platform to build trust through transparency, education, and empathy.
Her contributions were acknowledged by the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History, where her lab coat and other artifacts are now part of the collection, symbolizing her impact on history and public health.