Ziad Obermeyer is a prominent researcher and physician working at the intersection of machine learning and healthcare. His research focuses on leveraging machine learning to enhance clinical decision-making, such as identifying patients at risk for heart attacks, and aiding researchers in discovering new medical insights. By enabling algorithms to “see” the world in ways that human doctors might overlook, Obermeyer’s work aims to illuminate hidden health issues and connect physiological markers, like individual body temperature set points, to broader health outcomes.
A key aspect of Obermeyer’s research is his exploration of algorithmic bias. He has demonstrated how widely-used medical algorithms can perpetuate and scale racial bias, affecting millions of patients. This groundbreaking work has influenced how organizations develop and implement algorithms, leading to greater accountability from lawmakers and regulators. In 2024, his findings culminated in testimony before the Senate Finance Committee, highlighting the urgent need for ethical standards in AI healthcare applications.
Obermeyer’s contributions to the field have earned him notable recognition. He was named one of TIME Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in AI and is a Chan–Zuckerberg Biohub Investigator, as well as a Research Associate at the National Bureau of Economic Research. Additionally, he was honored as an Emerging Leader by the National Academy of Medicine.
Previously an Assistant Professor at Harvard Medical School, Obermeyer continues to practice emergency medicine in underserved communities, reinforcing his commitment to improving health outcomes through innovative technologies and compassionate care. His work exemplifies the potential of AI to transform healthcare while addressing critical ethical concerns.