A Scientific Symposium Commemorating
the 50th Anniversary of the Development of
the Polio Vaccine
April 11 and 12, 2005
Alumni Hall, University of Pittsburgh
Polio Symposium
Speakers
- Matthias Gromeier, M.D.
- William Gruber, M.D.
- David L. Heymann, M.D.
- Robert A. Keegan
- Heidi J. Larson, Ph.D.
- Gary J. Nabel, M.D., Ph.D.
- Paul A. Offit, M.D.
- David M. Oshinsky, Ph.D.
- Tara O’Toole, M.D., M.P.H.
- Louis Piconi
- Charles R. Rinaldo Jr., Ph.D.
- John B. Robbins, M.D.
- Peter L. Salk, M.D.
- John Troan
- Julius S. Youngner, Sc.D.
John B. Robbins, M.D.
Chief, Laboratory of Developmental and
Molecular Immunity
National Institute of Child Health and
Human Development
The pioneering research undertaken by Dr. Robbins has focused on developing vaccines for diseases that are prevalent in infants and children. He and a colleague, Rachel Schneerson, M.D., developed a vaccine designed to eradicate bacterial meningitis caused by Haemophilus influenzae type B (Hib), a deadly and debilitating infectious agent and the leading cause of acquired mental retardation in children. The vaccine is now used throughout the world. His vaccine development research has also targeted typhoid, pertussis, and other diseases. Among the honors Dr. Robbins has received are the Albert Lasker Award for Clinical Research, the World Health Organization’s Pasteur Award, and the Albert B. Sabin Gold Medal. Dr. Robbins is a member of the National Academy of Sciences and the Institute of Medicine.