Michael T. Osterholm Endowed Chair in Infectious Disease Research and Policy

About the Job
The University of Minnesota is seeking an Associate/Full Professor to hold the Michael T. Osterholm Endowed Chair in Infectious Disease Research and Policy. This tenured position is based within the Division of Environmental Health Sciences (EnHS) at the School of Public Health (SPH) and includes a leadership role within the Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy (CIDRAP). The successful candidate will advance the field of infectious disease research and public health policy with a focus on emerging threats, zoonotic and vector-borne diseases, antimicrobial resistance, vaccine policy, priority pathogens with pandemic and epidemic potential, and public health preparedness. The position includes a blend of research, teaching, and policy development, and it offers the opportunity to collaborate across the University and with external stakeholders in the public and private sectors. The Michael T. Osterholm Endowed Chair will also serve as a strategic leader and member of CIDRAP’s executive team, contributing to CIDRAP’s mission and direction.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and conduct innovative research on infectious diseases with a focus on public health policy, emerging infectious diseases, antimicrobial resistance, and vaccine policy.
• Advance the mission of the School of Public Health and CIDRAP by translating research into real-world policy applications and providing expertise on global infectious disease challenges.
• Maintain a strong, externally funded research program.
• Teach graduate-level courses and mentor students in the field of infectious disease research and policy.
• Collaborate with internal and external partners, including academic institutions, government agencies, and industry stakeholders.
• Serve as a member of CIDRAP’s Executive Team, including program development, staff supervision and career development, and leadership and oversight of CIDRAP initiatives.
• Serve as a liaison between SPH, CIDRAP and other University units, external partners, and governmental organizations.

Qualifications
Required Qualifications:

• PhD, MD, or DVM with expertise in epidemiology or a related field.
• At least 10 years of experience in epidemiologic research and/or public health practice at the state, national, or international level.
• Proven expertise in infectious disease epidemiology and/or public health policy.
• Strong record of externally funded research, including NIH or similar support.
• Experience working with national and international public health agencies (e.g., CDC, WHO).
• Expertise in epidemiologic research methods, including surveillance, outbreak investigations, and data analysis.
• Experience in program leadership, including building and supervising diverse teams, tracking progress, and ensuring high-quality deliverables.
• Experience in risk communication, particularly related to infectious disease threats.
• National recognition in the field through leadership roles, publications, and collaborations.
• Commitment to teaching and mentoring a diverse student body.
• Cultural competency and experience working with diverse or underserved populations.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s in Public Health (MPH) if holding an MD or DVM.
• Experience with laboratory practices related to infectious disease diagnosis.
• Public outreach experience, including media appearances or expert opinion contributions.
• Demonstrated leadership in public health program development, management, and evaluation.

Contact Information