Professor Ilaria Capua

Virologist, Professor Ilaria Capua, has contributed extensively to the global research of viruses throughout her thirty-year career. Responsible for many leading developments in the understanding of animal viruses, Capua is also an advocate for greater access to genetic information to support research internationally. A progressive leader in her field, Capua is sought after to discuss her work with audiences as a speaker and empower individuals and businesses to support female leadership in STEM areas.

Best recognised for her exploration of influenza viruses, Capua was pivotal in the scientific research behind conquering the bird flu outbreak effecting Italy’s poultry industry. Her lab developed the innovative strategy that ensured the target pathogen was eradicated and the industry could continue to safety thrive. Following the success of her response, Capua has campaigned for open access to information on emerging viruses to promote a global prevention strategy. Having fronted the debate on the benefits of public access, Capua has been featured in major publications including New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and news outlets as an expert.

Currently, Capua is a professor at the University of Florida where she also acts as the Director of the One Health Centre of Excellence programme. In this role she aims to overcome international health challenges combining her previous political exposure as a Member of Italian Parliament for 3 years, and her scientific experience to conduct research from an alternative perspective. Prior to joining the University of Florida in 2016, Capua has spent over 20 years at the Istituti Zooprofilattici in Italy where she directed the Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences.

For her work across the decades, Capua has received international recognition including being named Grand Officer of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic in 2012. Capua has also been awarded the International Literary Prize for Science and Arts, the Excellence Award and was listed as a Revolutionary Mind by Seed Magazine. The award winning virologist and former politician is in high demand for the content and execution of her talks. During speeches, Capua explores her research findings, career history and most recently pre-pandemic preparedness strategies with a range of audiences, each talk delivered in an engaging, accessible manner.