Greek-American scientist Dr. George Scangos heads global campaign for coronavirus treatment

As the entire world appears to be experiencing a new pandemic caused by the infamous Covid19 coronavirus, scientists have been working tirelessly behind the scenes to find a potential treatment which could save thousands — or even millions — of lives.

The key individual currently leading the world’s desperate efforts in this field is Dr. George Scangos, a Greek-American researcher from Massachusetts who was just tasked by the Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO) to coordinate the scientific community towards a cure.

Dr. Scangos is currently the chief executive of the infectious disease biotechnology company Vir.

The hoped-for treatment could offer massive relief to the entirety of humankind, as the consequences of this sudden global public health emergency have already been complex and dramatic.

Before leading Vir, Scangos was the former CEO of Biogen, a pioneering American multinational biotechnology company based in Massachusetts.

Just a few days ago BIO tapped Scangos to lead the response to this global emergency because of his years of expertise and demonstrated excellence in his field.

Scangos has now been tasked with the immense responsibility of coordinating the entire industry’s response to the threat the Covid19 Coronavirus poses to the globe.

In early March, Scangos’ company Vir reached an agreement with China’s WuXi Biologics company to join efforts to develop human monoclonal antibodies, which could potentially lead to the discovery of the treatment for the Covid19 coronavirus.

This, along with his unique expertise in biotechnology, raises hopes that soon, the doctor and his team will be able to bring some very positive and encouraging news to the entire world.

Scangos, who grew up in Lynn, Massachusetts before moving to Connecticut, is of direct Greek descent on his father’s side, as his grandparents came to the United States from Greece.

Apart from a successful career in several of the top biotech companies in the US, Dr. Scangos has also served as a Professor of Biology at Johns Hopkins University. He is currently serving on the Board of Trustees of Cornell University and the Board of Overseers of the University of California at San Francisco.

The Greek-American scientist received his B.A. in Biology from Cornell University and a Ph.D. in Microbiology from the University of Massachusetts.

Nick Campouris

Source: Greek Reporter (edits)
Photo: Bob O'Connor (1), (2)