Texas A&M Veterinarian Selected to Chair National Committee

Dr. Gerald Parker, associate dean for Global One Health in the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, has been appointed chair of the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine’s Standing Committee on Emerging Infectious Diseases and 21^st Century Health Threats.

The committee provides advice to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR) on issues related to emerging infectious diseases, public health preparedness, and other health security challenges. As chair, Parker will lead a multidisciplinary group of experts working to address current and future health threats.

“This committee has a mission-essential role in helping protect the country from infectious diseases,” Parker said. “Its purpose is to provide independent advice and expertise on issues that are critical to our national health security.”

The committee has already started working on recommendations related to crisis standards of care during periods of peak demand on the health care system. Future topics may include medical countermeasures, health care supply chains, biosecurity policy, and advanced bio surveillance technologies that use artificial intelligence and other emerging tools to strengthen readiness for future health security crises.

Parker said his selection reflects the value of bringing together diverse expertise to address these challenges.

“I think it is significant that a veterinarian is doing this,” Parker said. “My whole career has been multidisciplinary, and I’ve evolved into leadership roles in the health, security, and biodefense world. It also reflects confidence in the veterinary profession and the value of a One Health approach to solving complex problems.”

This committee will provide ongoing, independent scientific and policy guidance to inform national preparedness for emerging health threats and the National Health Security Strategy.