Paul Kirchgatterer receives “Out of The Box” Award

Every year, the Vienna BioCenter PhD Symposium brings together life scientists from around the world. In the frame of this year’s symposium, two collaborative projects at the Vienna BioCenter were recognized with the "Out of the Box" Award for proposing highly original research approaches.   

One of the awarded projects, led by Paul Kirchgatterer, Leon Schmidt and Sebastian Platzer, aims to identify vulnerable viral genes that can be targeted to develop antiviral treatments. To interfere with viral replication, scientists usually aim at inhibiting genes essential for this process. However, some genes are more vulnerable than others. Targeting these vulnerable genes is easier, as even a slight inhibition—which is clinically more realistic than a complete shutdown—can completely block viral replication.  

To pinpoint such vulnerabilities, the researchers will combine high-throughput automated cell culture and functional genomics. The team aims to uncover new targets that can inform the development of better antiviral therapies. 

About the Out of the Box Award 

The Out of the Box Award is presented annually for the most curiosity-driven, high-risk/high-reward experiment, supporting creative and interdisciplinary thinking in science. PhD students of the Vienna BioCenter PhD Program can propose innovative, collaborative projects that take unconventional approaches to solving major technical or biological challenges. 

The 10,000-Euro prize supports the awarded project and fosters collaboration across research groups.