Dr. Leor Weinberger Named Miller School Chair of the Department of Cell Biology
A globally recognized leader in systems virology and synthetic biology, Dr. Weinberger has pioneered new approaches to antiviral therapy.
Leor S. Weinberger, Ph.D., has joined the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine as chair of the Department of Cell Biology.
Prior to coming to the Miller School, Dr. Weinberger worked at the Gladstone Institutes at the University of California, San Francisco, where he served as the William and Utè Bowes Distinguished Professor of Virology, founding director of the Gladstone–UCSF Center for Cell Circuitry and professor of pharmaceutical chemistry, biochemistry and biophysics.
A globally recognized leader in systems virology and synthetic biology, Dr. Weinberger has pioneered new approaches to antiviral therapy, including the development of Therapeutic Interfering Particles (TIPs)—a novel, escape-resistant platform currently advancing through clinical trials. His work has been widely published in high-impact journals and supported by multiple NIH Director’s Awards, including the Pioneer and Transformative Research Awards.
Dr. Weinberger’s research has transformed our understanding of viral latency, transcriptional noise and circuit dynamics in cells.
“I’m excited to build a department where fundamental discoveries are rapidly translated into next-generation cellular therapies,” he said. “With Miami’s vibrant biotech and entrepreneurial ecosystem, there is an unparalleled opportunity to dramatically accelerate translation of innovative new medicines to patients. I am truly grateful for Dean Ford’s vision and the leadership of Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center for partnering to build this next chapter for the university.”
Beyond his scientific accomplishments, he is a dedicated educator and mentor, having trained numerous faculty members now leading their own labs at institutions across the U.S. and internationally. As chair, Dr. Weinberger will lead a foundational basic science department central to advancing the Miller School’s research and education missions. His appointment aligns with the Miller School’s strategic focus on fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, expanding extramural funding and training the next generation of physician-scientists and biomedical researchers.
Tags: 2025 chairs, Department of Cell Biology, Dr. Leor Weinberger, HIV