[1] Trained as a geneticist, molecular biologist, and immunologist, his research examines how cells of the immune system defend themselves against various pathogens, including viruses and bacteria.

[4][5][6] He became interested in genetics while a student at Campion Jesuit High School during a senior project in which he prepared karyotypes of chromosomes for a hospital laboratory investigating birth defects in infants.

[8] He conducted research in molecular biology of mammalian systems and gene regulation under the mentorship of Nobel laureates David Baltimore and Philip Sharp.

[11][12][13] Following the completion of his postdoctoral fellowship, he became an independent principal investigator at NIAID, National Institutes of Health.

[1][7] His work investigates human genetic immunodeficiencies through direct clinical research informed by a range of contemporary molecular, biochemical, and immunological approaches.

[4] In so doing, it has illuminated the origins and mechanics of various underlying immunological and genetic disease processes, together with concepts for successful treatments.

[8][19] Lenardo has been a strong proponent of mentorship for emerging young scientists at the National Institutes of Health.

[22] Of performing with the band, Lenardo has stated, “I find that music—both listening and performing—unleashes creativity and optimism, which helps my scientific work on these devastating diseases.”[22]