Meet the Scientist Fighting to Unlock ME/CFS: A Conversation with Dr. W. Ian Lipkin

October 1, 2025

Dr. W. Ian Lipkin is one of the world’s leading experts in pathogen discovery and infectious disease, and for the past two decades he has turned his focus to ME/CFS. Based at Columbia University, where he directs one of only two dedicated NIH ME/CFS research centers in the country, Dr. Lipkin has been at the forefront of understanding the immunological abnormalities that drive this disease, and identifying drug candidates that could finally be tested in clinical trials.

In this video, Dr. Lipkin breaks down what the science currently shows, why ME/CFS has been so difficult to crack, and what becomes possible with adequate federal investment. His message is clear: the research is further along than most people realize, and the biggest obstacle now isn’t scientific. It’s funding.

GLOSSARY

CDC

The Center for Disease Control protects the United States’ health from threats using science and data

NIH

The National Institute of Health aims to discover new information that will result in better health for everyone

National Academies of Medicine

Previously called the Institute of Medicine, this nonprofit, private organization was created to advise the country on relevant issues

WHO

The World Health Organization works worldwide to promote health, promote safety, and serve the vulnerable

PACE

Short for “Pacing, graded Activity, and Cognitive behavioral therapy; a randomized Evaluation”

The Lancet

One of the world’s highest impact, most prestigious academic journals

FDA

The Food and Drug Administration protects American health by overseeing food, drugs, cosmetics, animal food, dietary supplements, medical devices, biological goods, and blood products

GLOSSARY

Your Cart (0)