Michael Osterholm

Michael Osterholm was born on March 10, 1953, in Waukon, Iowa. He pursued his higher education at Luther College, earning a Bachelor of Arts in biology and political science in 1975. He continued his academic journey at the University of Minnesota, where he obtained a Master of Science in environmental health, a Master of Public Health in epidemiology, and a Ph.D. in environmental health. These academic foundations prepared him for a career in public health, focusing on infectious diseases and their impact.

Osterholm dedicated 24 years of his career, from 1975 to 1999, to the Minnesota Department of Health, serving in various capacities including state epidemiologist for 15 years. During his tenure, he led significant investigations into public health outbreaks, such as foodborne diseases, toxic shock syndrome, and the transmission of hepatitis B and HIV in healthcare settings. His early work established his reputation as a meticulous and effective epidemiologist, contributing to the understanding and control of infectious diseases at a state level. His expertise in epidemiology and public health preparedness became increasingly vital.

His career progression saw him taking on roles of national and international importance. From 2001 to 2005, he served as a Special Advisor to HHS Secretary Tommy G. Thompson on bioterrorism and public health preparedness. In November 2020, he was appointed to President-elect Joe Biden’s 13-member Transition COVID-19 Advisory Board, highlighting his continued relevance and leadership in public health during global crises. He is currently a Regents Professor and McKnight Presidential Endowed Chair in Public Health at the University of Minnesota, alongside his role as director of the Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy (CIDRAP). His work includes authoring the New York Times best-selling book “Deadliest Enemy: Our War Against Killer Germs” in 2017.