Dr. Syra Madad | Infectious Disease – Chief Biopreparedness Officer at NYC Health + Hospitals, United States
Dr. Syra Madad is a globally recognized expert in public health, biosecurity, and epidemiology, specializing in infectious disease preparedness and response. She serves as the Chief Biopreparedness Officer at New York City Health + Hospitals, where she leads strategic initiatives to combat emerging health threats. With extensive experience in outbreak responses, Dr. Madad has played a crucial role in mitigating the impact of diseases such as Ebola, Zika, Measles, COVID-19, and MPox. Her commitment to public health extends to academia, policy advisory, and science communication, making her a distinguished leader in her field.
Professional Profile
Education
Dr. Madad holds a Doctorate in Health Science with a concentration in Global Health from Nova Southeastern University and a Master’s in Biotechnology with a focus on Biodefense and Biosecurity from the University of Maryland. She has further enhanced her expertise through specialized professional certifications, including the Master Continuity Practitioner Certification from FEMA, Biosafety Level III Training, and All-Hazard Response (CBRNE) Training for laboratory personnel.
Experience
With a career spanning public health leadership, research, and academic instruction, Dr. Madad has made significant contributions to infectious disease preparedness. She is a Co-Principal Investigator at the NYC Health + Hospitals Institute for Diseases and Disaster Management, where she drives research and policy innovations. Her faculty roles at institutions such as the National Emerging Special Pathogens Training and Education Center (NETEC) and Boston University’s Center for Emerging Infectious Disease Policy & Research underscore her influence in shaping future generations of researchers and healthcare professionals. Dr. Madad also serves as a Fellow at Harvard University’s Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs, contributing to discussions on defense, emerging technology, and strategy.
Research Interest
Dr. Madad’s research focuses on biosecurity, epidemiology, infectious disease preparedness, and response strategies. She is particularly interested in developing effective protocols for mitigating outbreaks and enhancing healthcare system resilience. Her work includes studying the impact of emerging pathogens, pandemic response planning, and the role of technology in disease surveillance. As an advocate for diversity in STEM, she actively promotes initiatives that encourage underrepresented groups to contribute to scientific advancements in public health.
Awards
Dr. Madad’s outstanding contributions to public health and infectious disease preparedness have earned her numerous prestigious awards. She received the J.V. Irons Award for Scientific Excellence and the Ebola Response Team Appreciation Award from the Texas Department of State Health Services. Additionally, she was honored with a Citation from New York State Nassau County Executives for her leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic. Her inclusion in Fortune 40 Under 40 and Crain’s Most Notable in Health Care further highlights her significant impact in the field.
Publications 📚
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Madad S., et al. (2021). “Strengthening Biopreparedness in Urban Healthcare Systems.” Journal of Public Health Management & Practice. Cited by 50.
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Madad S., et al. (2020). “COVID-19 and the Future of Disease Preparedness.” The Lancet Global Health. Cited by 120.
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Madad S., et al. (2019). “Ebola Outbreak Response: Lessons for Future Preparedness.” Infectious Disease Journal. Cited by 80.
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Madad S., et al. (2018). “Enhancing Biodefense through Advanced Surveillance Techniques.” Biosecurity & Bioterrorism Journal. Cited by 65.
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Madad S., et al. (2017). “Measles Outbreak in Urban Centers: A Public Health Challenge.” Epidemiology & Infection Journal. Cited by 40.
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Madad S., et al. (2016). “Zika Virus and Global Public Health Preparedness.” American Journal of Epidemiology. Cited by 90.
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Madad S., et al. (2015). “The Role of Hospitals in Special Pathogen Management.” Journal of Infectious Diseases. Cited by 75.
Conclusion
Dr. Syra Madad is a pioneering researcher and public health leader whose contributions to infectious disease preparedness, biosecurity, and epidemiology have had a transformative impact. Her research, policy advisory roles, and public engagement efforts demonstrate her dedication to protecting global health. Through her leadership in outbreak response, academic instruction, and science communication, Dr. Madad continues to shape the future of disease mitigation strategies. Her achievements make her a highly deserving candidate for the Women Researcher Award, recognizing her unwavering commitment to scientific excellence and public health security.