Francoise Barre-Sinoussi

Professor Françoise Barré-Sinoussi, MD, is a pioneering French virologist renowned for her seminal discovery of the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) as the causative agent of AIDS—work that fundamentally transformed the global understanding of retroviral pathogenesis and catalyzed decades of research in prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. For this landmark contribution, she was co-awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine (2008) alongside Professor Luc Montagnier.
Trained in medicine and clinical pathology, Professor Barré-Sinoussi joined the Institut Pasteur early in her career, where she established and led the Retroviral Infection Unit. Her research elucidated key aspects of HIV biology, viral–host interactions, and immune dysfunction, laying the scientific foundation for antiretroviral therapy development and vaccine research.

Beyond her laboratory discoveries, Professor Barré-Sinoussi has played major roles in shaping global responses to HIV/AIDS. She has served on numerous international advisory committees and boards, including leadership roles in the International AIDS Vaccine Initiative (IAVI), Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), and the Global HIV Vaccine Enterprise, contributing to strategic frameworks for vaccine research and equitable access to care.
Her advocacy has extended into public health policy; she serves as Co-Chair of the French High Council for Public Health (Haut Conseil de la Santé Publique), where she provides expert guidance on infectious disease preparedness, vaccination strategy, and health systems strengthening.
Professor Barré-Sinoussi’s scientific influence is reflected in hundreds of peer-reviewed publications, mentorship of emerging scientists, and leadership in international research consortia. Her work exemplifies the integration of basic discovery science with transformative clinical and global health impact.