Vaccines are the most effective biomedical innovation saving countless lives yet face growing skepticism. Novel technologies, including systems biology, adjuvants that boost vaccine responses, and cell culture systems that model individual vaccine responses outside the body, promise to make vaccines even better, enhancing safety and efficacy in vulnerable populations. Dr. Ofer Levy was born to and raised by the artist Benjamin Levy and music composer Hannah Levy in New York City, where he graduated from the Bronx High School of Science. After graduating from Yale College (B.S., Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry), Dr. Levy entered the Medical Scientist (MD/PhD) Training Program at New York University School of Medicine. There he earned his PhD under the mentorship of Drs. Peter Elsbach and Jerrold Weiss, characterizing neutrophil-derived antimicrobial proteins and peptides. Inspired by his wife Sharon’s example, he chose Pediatrics and completed both residency and fellowship at Boston Children’s Hospital. He is currently Professor at Harvard Medical School as well as principal investigator, staff physician in Infectious Diseases and the Director of the Precisions Vaccine Program in the Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children’s Hospital. The Precision Vaccines Program is an academic program that fosters international collaboration between academia, government, and industry for development of vaccine formulations optimized to protect vulnerable populations. Dr. Levy’s laboratory is focused on modeling vaccine-induced human immune responses in vitro using a variety of platforms including three-dimensional microphysiologic systems as well as global molecular (“OMIC”) approaches to accelerate and de-risk development of vaccines optimized for populations with distinct immune responses, including those at the extremes of age who suffer the most infections. He currently leads or co-leads multiple NIH/NIAID-supported studies, including (a) Adjuvant Discovery and Development Program contracts, leveraging high throughput screening to discover, characterize, and formulate novel small molecule adjuvants to enhance vaccine responses of vulnerable populations such as infants and older adults and (b) systems biology projects via the Human Immunology Project Consortium and the Immune Development in Early Life (IDEAL) program to define biomarkers of vaccine responsiveness, respiratory infection and asthma. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
More from TED
- 21:38The biggest ‘pandemic’ - Road Accidents | S Rajsekaran | TEDxCS Academy CoimbatoreEvery life is precious, yet thousands are lost every day due to road accidents—many of them preventable. In this eye-opening talk, Dr. Rajsekaran sheds light on the critical importance of road safety and the small yet powerful actions that can save lives. From understanding risky behaviors to embracing responsible driving habits, he explores practical ways to reduce accidents and create safer roads for everyone.Every life is precious, yet thousands are lost every day due to road accidents—many of them preventable. In this eye-opening talk, Dr. Rajsekaran sheds light on the critical importance of road safety and the small yet powerful actions that can save lives. From understanding risky behaviors to embracing responsible driving habits, he explores practical ways to reduce accidents and create safer roads for everyone. Dr Rajasekaran, a seasoned orthopaedic surgeon and owner of Ganga hospital, is amongst the top 2% of all bone surgeons in the world according to Stanford university. Additionally, Dr Rajasekeran was the past international chair of AO Spine, past chair of the international research commission of AO spine, Cervical Spine Research Society (CSRS) and the immediate past president of Asia Pacific Spine Society, and former president of SICOT. Nationally. he has been the past president of Indian Orthopaedic Association and the Association of spine surgeons of India. He is also a visiting professor for Harvard Medical International and has been instrumental into developing many philanthropic projects such as UYIR and even Project SWASAM. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
- 8:58The anxiety behind phone calls and how to deal with it. | Sytske Kooijker | TEDxLeeuwarden"Picture this: Your phone rings, and it’s not a text—it’s a call. Your heart skips a beat, your palms sweat, and you hesitate. Should you answer? Let it ring? Pretend you’re busy? If this feels familiar, you’re not alone. For Millennials and Gen Z, this moment has become a shared experience. Despite living in the most connected era in history, many of us feel more comfortable messaging than talking on the phone. But why? How did something as simple as saying 'hello' become so overwhelming? Founder of Draw the Line - helps companies set healthy boundaries in the workplace. As a Millennial, she understands the challenges of building real-time connections in today’s digital world. Sytske works with teams to improve communication and create more balanced, productive work environments. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
- 18:26Embracing the present in a rapidly changing world | Ramsiva Linga | TEDxIIMKashipurChange is inevitable, constant, and ever-accelerating—but does chasing the future mean losing sight of the present? In this thought-provoking talk, Mr. Ramsiva Linga explores the delicate balance between adapting to change and truly living in the moment. While the continuum of change shapes our world, he reminds us that growth isn’t just about anticipating what’s next—it’s about embracing where we are today.Ramsiva Linga embodies versatility and vision, seamlessly blending entrepreneurship, leadership, and innovation across industries. An alumnus of the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Kashipur, Ramsiva’s career spans over a decade, marked by transformative contributions to sectors like media, real estate, education, and digital transformation. Ramsiva Linga is a versatile leader and entrepreneur with over a decade of experience spanning multiple industries, specializing in management consulting, business strategy, and product innovation. An alumnus of the esteemed Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Kashipur, Ramsiva has held key leadership roles in organizations such as Tata Steel, My Home Group, Arha Media & Broadcasting Pvt. Ltd. (Aha OTT), Meru International School, and My Home Constructions Pvt. Ltd. At Aha OTT, he played a pivotal role in establishing one of India's leading regional OTT platforms, while at My Home Group, he led strategic initiatives that spanned several sectors. Ramsiva has a proven track record of driving growth and fostering innovation across diverse fields, including housing, media & entertainment, real estate, education, and digital transformation. In addition to his corporate achievements, he co-founded Virtuous Health, where he spearheaded business development and product strategy. His entrepreneurial spirit extends beyond the boardroom, as he dedicates his weekends to teaching and organic farming. His academic credentials include a B.Tech in Electronics & Instrumentation Engineering, various postgraduate diplomas, and an MBA from IIM Kashipur. A certified Six Sigma Green Belt, Ramsiva is deeply passionate about mentoring startups, nurturing innovation, and contributing to the success of the businesses he works with. Outside of his professional endeavors, Ramsiva is an adventure enthusiast, engaging in activities like scuba diving and skiing, and he takes great pride in mentoring future leaders. His commitment to social causes is equally strong, having contributed to the construction of over 500 toilets for girl students as part of the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
- 3:17The problem of invasive species of wakame | 「好き」を想いのまま突き詰める | Miu Hayashi | TEDxKamiyama YouthShe discussed the issue of invasive wakame species, addressing the current situation and future outlook while presenting a vision for the future. She also shared her perspective on the importance of "pursuing what one loves freely and wholeheartedly" in the 0→1 process. Founded and has been leading the "Wakame Project by Teenagers" at Kamiyama Marugoto KOSEN. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
- 14:26What AI Has Taught Me About Being Human | Sirio Berati | TEDxUofTMississaugaIn "What AI Has Taught Me About Being Human," Sirio shares his transformative journey of overcoming aphantasia to unlock creativity through artificial intelligence. He reveals how AI not only redefines art and design but also deepens our understanding of human potential and purpose. By challenging the myth that creativity is reserved for a select few, Sirio inspires us all to embrace technology as a tool for transcending limitations and living a life filled with meaning and impact.Sirio Berati is a creative entrepreneur from Albania, acclaimed as a modern-day polymath and Renaissance man. As the founder and CEO of VISIONREIMAGINE®, he has empowered over 18,000 creators worldwide by seamlessly blending technology and artistry. An accomplished artist, singer, songwriter, and creative producer, Sirio has developed innovative AI platforms like LONOvm and TalkTune, showcasing the transformative potential of artificial intelligence in business and the arts.Rooted in his Albanian heritage, Sirio's work transcends cultural boundaries, aiming to redefine global perceptions of creativity and innovation. His philosophical approach to entrepreneurship emphasizes the synergy between human creativity and technological advancement. Through initiatives like #createwithoutlimits, he invites others to join him in reimagining the possibilities at the intersection of art and technology. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
- 15:18From Fear to Flourishing: How Psychological Safety Fuels Innovation | Leo Chan | TEDxUofTMississaugaWhat’s the biggest barrier to innovation? Fear. And what’s the key to overcoming it? Psychological safety. Drawing from his life experiences from student designer to corporate innovator, innovation expert Leo Chan reveals how creating safe environments unleashes bold ideas, strengthens relationships and drives extraordinary innovation.Learn how to move from fear to flourishing—and why YOU hold the power to shape the future by fostering psychological safety in every interaction. This talk is your invitation to unlock your innovative potential and change the world.Leo Chan is an innovation expert, keynote speaker, and LEGO®️ SERIOUS PLAY®️ trainer & facilitator on a mission to unleash innovation in everyone. As the Chief Innovation Igniter at Abound Innovation Inc., he has helped organizations— from nonprofits to Fortune 500s—unlock their employees’ full innovative potential. With 55 U.S. patents and 20+ years of experience, he’s taught over 35,000 professionals worldwide. He’s also a LinkedIn Learning Instructor. Leo’s approach to teaching innovation is approachable, practical, fun, playful, and most importantly, impactful. His infectious energy and passion both inspire and equip participants to be empowered to make change. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
