Prof. Manu Shankar-Hari has built an exceptional career in sepsis, immunology, and translational medicine, shaping both research and clinical practice. His contributions include redefining septic shock with widely adopted clinical criteria and the ExPRES-sepsis cohort study, which showed that immunosuppression biomarkers predict subsequent sepsis in ED patients.

His immunology research has advanced the understanding of peripheral immunophenotypes in children with MIS-C (multisystem inflammatory syndrome associated with SARS-CoV-2) and identified dynamic immune signatures in COVID-19 that are assoiated with a poor prognosis. He is also a key contributor to LUNG SAFE, the largest international study on severe acute respiratory failure, which set a benchmark in critical care epidemiology.

Prof. Shankar-Hari credits his epidemiological training and PhD in immunology for shaping his distinctive approach to research — one that questions deeply and translates science directly to the bedside.

“Take the time to get formal research training. Think critically, don’t just chase the bright lights — choose a field that truly inspires you. And above all, find the support of good mentors. These are the foundations for meaningful research and lasting impact in intensive care.”

His words are an inspiration to young intensivists everywhere — values that not only shaped his own success but also guide the future of intensive care medicine.