Dr. Syra Madad stands as a trailblazer in public health and infectious disease preparedness, embodying the resilience and dedication rooted in her Shia Muslim faith. As the Senior Director of the System-wide Special Pathogens Program at NYC Health + Hospitals, Dr. Madad has become a leading voice in biosecurity, pandemic response, and biopreparedness.
A Career Dedicated to Saving Lives
Dr. Madad pursued a path dedicated to safeguarding public health. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Psychology and later a master’s in Biotechnology with a concentration in Biodefense and Biosecurity from the University of Maryland. She further solidified her expertise with a Doctor of Health Science (DHSc) in Global Health from Nova Southeastern University.
Dr. Madad’s leadership has been pivotal in preparing for and responding to outbreaks like Ebola and COVID-19. Her groundbreaking work was spotlighted in the 2020 Netflix docuseries Pandemic: How to Prevent an Outbreak and the Discovery Channel’s The Vaccine: Conquering COVID.
Recent Achievements and Recognition
In June 2024, Dr. Madad was appointed as the inaugural Chief Biopreparedness Officer at NYC Health + Hospitals. In this role, she leads system-wide efforts to defend against biological threats, creating strategies to mitigate risks and protect public health. Her appointment reflects her unmatched expertise and the trust placed in her ability to lead in times of crisis.
In July 2024, she joined the Board of Directors of Project HOPE, a global health and humanitarian organization. Her insights continue to shape international health policies and preparedness frameworks. Dr. Madad is also a Fellow at Harvard Kennedy School’s Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs, where she focuses on health security and bio-preparedness research.
Faith, Service, and Leadership
Dr. Syra Madad is a proud Shia Muslim whose values of service, justice, and compassion are deeply rooted in her faith. She has openly expressed the importance of her faith in shaping her ethics and professional integrity. Dr. Madad’s commitment to service mirrors the legacy of the Ahlul Bayt (AS), emphasizing care for humanity and standing against injustice, whether in public health or society.
A Role Model for Future Generations
As a Shia Muslim and a leading public health expert, Dr. Syra Madad exemplifies the power of knowledge and faith working hand-in-hand. She has not only contributed to global health security but has also served as a role model for young Muslims, especially women, showing that success in science and leadership can coexist with religious identity and values.
The Shia Muslim Foundation celebrates Dr. Syra Madad for her unwavering commitment to protecting lives and advancing public health. She embodies the spirit of service and resilience, leaving a lasting impact on society and inspiring future generations to lead with purpose and faith.
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