Biju Dharmapalan

Prof. Charles M Rice is an American virologist who pioneered the discovery of the Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) and has developed methods to study the virus in vitro. His work in the field of virology has been instrumental in advancing our understanding of hepatitis C, a viral infection that can cause chronic liver disease and lead to liver cirrhosis and cancer. It has also paved the way for advancements in antiviral therapies and the development of tools to combat other viral infections. Prof. Rice was awarded the 2020 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine, which he shared with American virologist Harvey J Alter and British-born scientist Michael Houghton. He is a professor of virology at Rockefeller University in New York City and an adjunct professor at Cornell University and Washington University School of Medicine.

Biju Dharmapalan: Professor Charles M Rice… It’s indeed a pleasure to meet you on the online platform, Greetings from Science Reporter, India’s premier science magazine.

Prof. Charles M Rice: Thanks for the opportunity to speak with you. I’m looking forward to hearing what’s on your mind.

Biju Dharmapalan: Your research work got recognition during the time when another virus was making havoc in the world. Even the Nobel Prize ceremony was conducted virtually, probably the first in history. How did you feel during that time?

Prof. Charles M Rice: It was a strange time for a virologist. New York City, where I work at Rockefeller University, was an epicenter of COVID-19. When I received…read more on NOPR