Leading young Russian scientist takes charge at Vector virology and biotechnology complex

The complex is at the forefront of efforts to find cures and antidotes to the most virulent diseases. It is one of only two places in the world that holds stocks of eradicated smallpox.

Recently Dr Maksyutov headed the laboratory of diagnostics - and the repository of DNA - of the variola virus. He also performed the duties of Vector deputy director for scientific work. 

He is the author and co-author of more than 70 scientific papers, and his doctoral thesis was entitled 'An experimental DNA vaccine against smallpox and other human orthopoxvirus infections.'

He is also involved in the research into cures for breast cancer, and the search for an HIV vaccine. He graduated from Novosibirsk State University in 2003, and received his PhD in 2010. 

His father, Amir Maksyutov, also works at the State Research Center of Virology and Biotechnology VECTOR, and is researching cures for breast cancer. The institute has been working on an Ebola vaccine to fulfil an order from the Russian government.