Career Highlights of Dr. Jay K. Varma
Dr. Jay K. Varma is a physician, epidemiologist, and public health leader dedicated to fighting infectious diseases and shaping global health policy. His career has been marked by transformative leadership in health systems, complex emergency management, high-impact research, and the development of life-saving policies.
My Mission
Public health is about anticipation, prevention, and action. My career has taken me from the front lines of disease outbreaks to advising policymakers and advancing research—always with the goal of creating a healthier, more resilient world. I remain committed to ensuring that science-based policies drive our responses to future health threats.
My Journey in Public Health
I graduated magna cum laude from Harvard University in 1993 with a degree in history, drawn to understanding how past events shape our present. However, my passion for public health led me to pursue medicine, earning my M.D. from the University of California, San Diego School of Medicine in 1997. I then completed my internal medicine residency at UCSD Medical Center, where I served as chief resident in 2001.
That same year, I joined the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Epidemic Intelligence Service, marking the beginning of my deep engagement with global health challenges. My early work focused on investigating foodborne diseases, but it wasn’t long before I was called to international assignments.
Leading Public Health Efforts in New York City
In 2011, I transitioned to public health leadership at the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, where I served as Deputy Commissioner for Disease Control. Over nearly a decade, I led the city’s response to multiple public health crises, including Ebola, measles, meningitis, and Legionnaires’ disease outbreaks.
However, nothing tested public health infrastructure more than the COVID-19 pandemic. As Senior Advisor for Public Health to Mayor Bill de Blasio, I worked on designing and implementing policies that shaped New York City’s pandemic response—from diagnostic testing and contact tracing to vaccine mandates and business reopening strategies.
International Public Health Leadership
My work has taken me across the globe, where I’ve collaborated with governments to strengthen health systems, improve disease surveillance, and implement life-saving interventions. From 2003 to 2008, I directed tuberculosis (TB) control programs across Southeast Asia, working closely with ministries of health in countries like Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Laos, and Myanmar.
Beyond Asia, I have also advised governments across Africa, the Middle East, and the Caribbean on public health preparedness, response strategies, and disease prevention programs.
Advancing Pandemic Preparedness and Health Policy
In September 2021, I took on a new challenge as Director of the Cornell Center for Pandemic Prevention and Response at Weill Cornell Medicine, where I continue to research and advocate for stronger global health systems. In 2023, I joined SIGA Technologies as Executive Vice President and Chief Medical Officer.
Launching My YouTube Channel – THERMOMETERHQ
Public health is at a critical moment—health systems are in crisis, new diseases are emerging, and governments are struggling to keep up. That’s why I launched my YouTube channel, THERMOMETERHQ, to provide expert insights on infectious diseases and global health.
What You’ll Find on My Channel
- Expert analysis of outbreaks and health threats
- Straight talk on what’s working, what’s failing, and how we do better
- Insider insights from someone who’s worked at the highest levels
- What you aren’t hearing from the media and governments
- Discussions with leaders in health & science
Recognitions and Contributions
Awards & Recognition
Meritorious Service Medal – “in recognition of high quality and initiative in leadership that averted illness and death, saved money, and strengthened public health capacity in New York City from July 2011 – June 2017”
US Public Health Service Lushniak Physician Leader of the Year – “for exceptional contributions to the accomplishments, goals, and objectives of the agency.”
Distinguished Service Medal – “in recognition of highly significant achievements in HIV-associated tuberculosis research and program leadership that changed health policies and practices in low resource countries worldwide from July 2003 – January 2011.”
Physician Researcher of the Year – Awarded to one U.S. Department of Health and Human Services physician annually for actions that increase the overall effectiveness of the Department through research.