Harald zur Hausen

Harald zur Hausen was born on March 20, 1936, in Gelsenkirchen-Buer, Germany. He is a renowned German virologist who made significant contributions to medical research by investigating the link between viruses and cancer. His groundbreaking research laid the foundation for understanding how certain high-risk types of human papillomavirus (HPV) contribute to cervical cancer.

In 1976, Harald zur Hausen proposed the hypothesis that human papillomavirus (HPV) was a cause of cervical cancer. At the time, this was a novel idea, as the prevalent view was that herpes simplex virus caused cervical cancer. His hypothesis laid the groundwork for future research into papillomaviruses and their role in cancer.

In 1983, Harald zur Hausen and his team identified specific strains of HPV, notably HPV 16 and HPV 18, that were found in cervical cancer biopsies. This crucial discovery advanced the understanding of the link between HPV and cervical cancer, providing strong evidence that these viruses were oncogenic and played a major role in the development of cervical cancer.

In September 1992, Harald zur Hausen became the Scientific Director of the German Cancer Research Center (Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, DKFZ) in Heidelberg, Germany. Under his leadership, the center became a prominent institution in cancer research, focusing on the molecular biology of cancer and contributing to the development of preventive and therapeutic strategies against cancer.

Harald zur Hausen retired from his position as Scientific Director of the German Cancer Research Center in June 2000. Even after his retirement, he continued to contribute to the field of cancer research through advisory roles and ongoing research activities, demonstrating his lasting commitment to advancing the understanding and prevention of cancer.

Harald zur Hausen was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine on October 6, 2008, for his discovery that human papillomaviruses (HPV) cause cervical cancer, a significant breakthrough in cancer research. This discovery revolutionized the understanding of how cervical cancer develops and led to the development of vaccines against HPV, significantly impacting public health.

In March 2009, Harald zur Hausen was honored with the Deutscher Krebspreis, a prestigious award by the German Cancer Aid, recognizing his groundbreaking research on the link between human papillomavirus (HPV) and cervical cancer. The award underscored his significant contributions to cancer research and his influence on the development of HPV vaccines.

Harald zur Hausen was elected President of the German Cancer Society in May 2010. During his tenure, he advocated for cancer research and the implementation of cancer prevention measures. His leadership in the society helped in advancing cancer treatment and increasing public awareness about the importance of cancer prevention and early detection.

In 2013, Harald zur Hausen published a book titled "Infection, Inflammation and Cancer." The book explores the complex relationship between infections, inflammatory responses, and the development of cancer. It provides insights into the mechanisms by which infections can lead to cancer and discusses potential strategies for prevention and treatment.

Harald zur Hausen was elected as a foreign associate of the US National Academy of Sciences in 2015. This prestigious membership is a recognition of his outstanding contributions to the scientific understanding of cancer and his work on the link between human papillomavirus (HPV) and cervical cancer, which has had a profound impact on public health worldwide.