VCU researchers developed Lyme vaccine for dogs — and now are working on one for humans
The Speaker:
Dr. Richard T. Marconi is a professor in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology at Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine and a nationally recognized leader in Lyme disease research.
For more than three decades, he has studied the biology of tick-borne infections, focusing on how these pathogens evade the immune system and how that knowledge can be translated into better prevention and treatment.
Marconi played a central role in developing the first widely used canine Lyme disease vaccine. His laboratory now is working to advance a safe and effective human Lyme disease vaccine.
He has lectured worldwide, published of research articles, holds numerous national and international patents, and has been continuously funded since 1990. He has served on more than 120 national and international advisory panels and was a charter member of the National Institutes of Health’s Vaccines for Microbial Diseases study section.
He also is the co-founder of the startup Chimeritope DX.
He earned his doctorate at the University of Montana, where he studied microbiology and biochemistry. He is a fellow of the American Academy of Microbiology and a Senior Member of the National Academy of Inventors.
Have a dog? Dr. Richard Marconi’s invention might be inside your canine.
And it might be coming soon to you, too.
Join us on Wednesday April 1 at noon for a free webinar to learn more about Marconi, a researcher at Virginia Commonwealth University who is one of the nation’s leading experts in Lyme disease. He is the inventor behind the leading canine Lyme disease vaccine, which has helped protect millions of dogs across North America
Building on that success, his downtown Richmond laboratory is developing a safe and effective human vaccine, applying decades of research to prevent tick-borne disease before it starts.
Marconi is one of VCU’s leading innovators, and his work illustrates how VCU and Central Virginia play an increasingly critical role in translating research from the lab into the real world.
His research also contributes to improved diagnostic tools and a deeper understanding of persistent symptoms associated with tick-borne illness.
Lyme disease is the most common tick-borne illness in the United States, and if left untreated, can lead to serious long-term health problems, including nervous system issues, heart problems and joint pain.
Lyme disease cases are increasing as ticks expand into new regions. The disease affects public health, healthcare costs, and workforce productivity — making prevention, research, and early detection especially important.
Marconi will share his story and how he has attracted federal funding, built his team, and formed partnerships locally and beyond to bring his vision to life. You’ll also get a basic science lesson in how his vaccines work — including learning the definition of “Chimeritope.”
Attendees will gain insight into how universities like VCU function as engines of growth, talent development, and problem-solving — and how civic and business leaders play a critical role in sustaining that ecosystem.
