Prof. Peter Lidsky received his MS and PhD training in virology at Moscow State University, where his research focused on virus-host interactions in Picornaviruses. He then transitioned to the University of Zurich to develop tools and probes for fluorescent imaging in the Drosophila model. Next, at the University of California San Francisco (UCSF), he combined his expertise in virology and genetics to build a versatile research program.
Notably, at UCSF, he developed the “pathogen control” hypothesis of aging, which underpins his current research interests. This hypothesis considers aging an immune adaptation that evolved to remove individuals who are potentially infected with chronic, debilitating diseases. This model challenges the established dogmas and provides an alternative framework for aging research and drug development.
In 2025, Peter published a popular science book about his theory and its implications titled “Aging: Why Does Evolution Kill?”
Since 2024, Peter has worked as an Assistant Professor at the City University of Hong Kong.