Professor of Epidemiology and Population Health, Stanford University School of Medicine
Adjunct Professor of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health Former Dean of the Faculty, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health
Dr. Michelle A. Williams stands as one of the most influential epidemiologists of her generation, combining rigorous scientific research with transformative academic leadership to advance global public health. Currently serving as Professor of Epidemiology and Population Health at Stanford University's School of Medicine, she brings a unique interdisciplinary perspective shaped by her background in biology, engineering, and epidemiology.
Dr. Williams' distinguished career includes her tenure as Dean of the Faculty at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, where she provided strategic leadership for one of the world's premier public health institutions. Prior to this role, she served as Professor and Chair of the Department of Epidemiology at Harvard Chan School and led the Population Health and Health Disparities Research Programs at Harvard's Clinical and Translational Sciences Center. Her earlier academic foundation was established during her distinguished career at the University of Washington School of Public Health.
Her research portfolio, encompassing more than 550 scientific publications, focuses on reproductive, perinatal, pediatric, and molecular epidemiology with particular emphasis on addressing health disparities. This work has positioned her as a leading voice in understanding how social determinants and biological factors intersect to influence population health outcomes.
Dr. Williams' contributions to science and education have earned her election to the National Academy of Medicine in 2016, marking her as one of the most respected voices in her field. Her commitment to mentoring the next generation of public health leaders has been recognized through numerous prestigious awards, including the Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics, and Engineering Mentoring from the White House in 2012, Harvard Chan School's Outstanding Mentor Award in 2015, and the University of Washington's Brotman Award for excellence in teaching in 2007. The American Public Health Association honored her educational impact with the Abraham Lilienfeld Award for education in epidemiology in 2007.
Her influence extends beyond academic circles, as evidenced by her recognition with the Ellis Island Medal of Honor in 2020 and her inclusion among PR Week's top 50 health influencers that same year. These honors reflect her ability to translate complex epidemiological research into actionable insights that inform public policy and practice.
Dr. Williams maintains active membership in several prestigious professional organizations, including the National Academy of Medicine, the Society for Epidemiologic Research, and the American Epidemiological Society. Her academic credentials include an undergraduate degree in biology and genetics from Princeton University, a master's degree in civil engineering from Tufts University, and both master's and doctoral degrees in epidemiology from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.
Linda Marsa
Linda Marsa is an award-winning former Los Angeles Times reporter and a Discover contributing editor who covers medicine, health, and the environment. Her latest book, which she wrote with Dr. Michelle Williams, The Cure for Everything: The Epic Struggle for Public Health and a Radical Vision for Human Thriving, was published in February. Her work has been anthologized in "Best American Science Writing," and she has previously authored two books, most recently: Fevered: Why a Hotter Planet Will Harm Our Health and How We Can Save Ourselves.
