Larry Brilliant

Larry Brilliant is an epidemiologist, technologist, and philanthropist known for his pivotal role in global health initiatives, including the eradication of smallpox. After playing a pivotal leadership role in the successful global smallpox eradication program from 1973 to 1976 with the World Health Organization (WHO), Larry Brilliant established himself as an epidemiologist, technologist, and philanthropist. His instrumental work with the WHO culminated in the complete eradication of smallpox, a landmark achievement in global public health that saved countless lives. Following this monumental success, Brilliant co-founded the Seva Foundation in December 1978, an international non-profit health organization dedicated to restoring sight and preventing blindness worldwide.

In this capacity, he directed Google’s global philanthropic investments and initiatives. In 2009, he became the first CEO of the Skoll Global Threats Fund, an organization dedicated to confronting global challenges such as climate change and pandemics. Recognizing his profound contributions to public health, Brilliant was awarded the prestigious TED Prize in 2006. He leveraged this platform to advocate for a global early warning system for pandemics, a vision that has proven increasingly vital.

Larry Brilliant continues to actively shape responses to global health and technological challenges. He has provided expert advisement on various international health crises, including COVID-19 response efforts. Currently, he serves as the CEO for Pandefense Advisory, a firm dedicated to strategic guidance on pandemic preparedness. Brilliant also contributes his expertise as a CNN Medical Analyst, offering commentary on emergent health issues to a broad audience.