35. Ilaria Ferlenghi - Early cryo-EM scepticism and resolving virus structures.

Ilaria Ferlenghi (Current Associate Director of Research & Senior Scientific Leader, GSK and former Predoctoral Fellow, EMBL Heidelberg, 1994-1999) chats with Thomas Vaccari (Current Professor, University of Milan and former Predoctoral Fellow, EMBL Heidelberg, 1999-2004). Ilaria discusses the scientific challenges of her PhD, particularly the skepticism towards cryo electron microscopy and the need to demonstrate its effectiveness. She also discusses the future of vaccine development, emphasising the need for tailor-made vaccines for different pathogens and the role of structural biologyThis conversation was recorded in February 2026. Alumni Chat contributors are members of the European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) community. The opinions expressed are their own and are not necessarily representative of the views of EMBL or any other party. The mere appearance of content on EMBL Alumni media accounts does not constitute an endorsement by EMBL. Production and Editing: EMBL Alumni Relations Content and Interviews: Angus Lamond and Thomas Vaccari Music: Eco Technology by Aleksey Chistilin from Pixabay Thanks to: EMBL Audiovisual and EMBL Design Sponsored by: EMBLEM © European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL)