Dr. Christiane Gerke (1967-2024)

It is with deep sadness that the International Vaccine Institute announces the passing of Dr. Christiane Gerke PhD, Program Director at the Europe Regional Office. Dr. Gerke passed away unexpectedly on June 12, 2024.

Having completed her PhD at the Eberhard Karls University in Tübingen, Germany, Dr. Gerke joined the Stanford University School of Medicine in the US as a postdoctoral fellow and scientist. She later worked as project leader and technology platform leader at the Novartis Institute for Global Health in Sienna from 2008-2015, leading the development of vaccines for Shigellosis based on a novel technology of outer membrane particles called GMMA (Generalized Modules for Membrane Antigens). In 2015, Dr. Gerke joined Institut Pasteur in Paris, where she was the Head of Vaccine Programs (2015-2018) and Head of Vaccine Innovation Development (2018-2023). In this role she oversaw a diverse portfolio of vaccine programs, clinical trials and partnerships, contributing to the development of various vaccines of importance to global health. In 2023, Dr. Gerke joined the International Vaccine Institute as the Program Director for the Europe Regional Office. She was responsible for developing new programs and leading the vaccine development projects in Europe.

Christiane Gerke was an exceptional scientist with outstanding dedication and contribution to vaccine research and development. She will be truly missed.

Our deepest condolences go out to Christiane Gerke’s family, friends, and colleagues around the world.