Dr. Michael Merson

Professor

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Biography

Michael H. Merson is the Interim Chair of the Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences and a Clinical Professor of Global and Environmental Health at New York University. He formerly served as the founding director of the Duke Global Health Institute and was Vice Provost for Global Affairs at Duke University. His current research focuses on policy issues related to pandemic responses, particularly the rollout of Paxlovid in low-income countries, and strategies to regain public trust in health systems. Prior to joining NYU, he was on the faculty at Yale University in Public Health. From 1980 to 1995, Merson directed several programs at the World Health Organization, including efforts in Diarrheal Diseases and Acute Respiratory Infections, and was involved in the Global Program on AIDS. He has authored around 150 articles and is the senior editor of a leading textbook titled 'Global Health: Disease, Programs, Systems, Policies.' He has served in advisory roles for several global health organizations, including UNAIDS and the Global Fund, and has received numerous honors such as the Consortium of Universities for Global Health Distinguished Leadership Award in 2018.

Research Interests

Experience

Interim Chair

2023-01-01 — Present

Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, New York University • New York, NY

Leadership and administration of the Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences.

Clinical Professor of Global and Environmental Health

2023-01-01 — Present

New York University • New York, NY

Academic responsibilities including teaching and research in the field of Global Health.

Founding Director

2006-01-01 — 2018-01-01

Duke Global Health Institute • Durham, NC

Established and led a comprehensive global health program at Duke University.

Vice Provost for Global Affairs

2014-01-01 — 2018-01-01

Duke University • Durham, NC

Oversaw global initiatives and partnerships.

Awards

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Distinguished Leadership Award

2018-01-01
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Distinguished Faculty Award

2017-01-01
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Master Teacher Award

2010-01-01
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Outstanding Contribution Campaign HIV/AIDS

2000-01-01
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AIDS Leadership Award

1998-01-01
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AIDS Leadership Award

1997-01-01
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Frank Babbott Alumni Award

1995-01-01
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Exemplary Service Medal

1993-01-01
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Outstanding Federal Service Award

1983-01-01
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Commendation Medal

1975-01-01

Requirements for New York University

Doctorate Program
Requirements
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree from accredited institution Strong background in biological, chemical, physical, or mathematical sciences
Application Checklist
  • Online application
  • Personal statement
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • CV/Resume
  • Unofficial transcripts
Specialization Notes

Open Program in Biomedical Sciences (Vilcek Institute) covers departments like Biochemistry, Pathology, Neuroscience, Microbiology, etc.