Dr. Lorenzo Giacani is currently an Associate Professor in the Department of Medicine, Division of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, and in the Department of Global Health of the University of Washington. He studies syphilis pathogenesis and evaluates vaccine candidates for syphilis, in addition to in vitro and in vivo testing of antibiotics for syphilis. His interest in STIs and syphilis began after being drafted into the Italian Army, where he was tasked with drawing blood from soldiers for syphilis testing.

Lorenzo holds a BS in Molecular Biology magna cum laude at the University of Bologna (Italy). Following his service in the army, Dr. Giacani enrolled in a Ph.D. program in Medical Biotechnology also at the University of Bologna, graduating in 2005. As a graduate student, Dr. Giacani focused primarily on the study of the virulence factors of the syphilis agent. In 2002, he moved to the University of Washington.

Throughout his career, he has received the ASTDA Developmental Award and the Vallesina Award for his scientific achievements.