Leadership transition at Oxford Global Health

Professor Alan Bernstein will step down as Director of the Oxford Global Health initiative after two and a half years in the role.  

Professors Susanna Dunachie and Caesar Atuire will take up the position of Co-Directors. Both previously served as Co-Associate Directors, working closely with Professor Bernstein to shape the initiative’s direction. 

Established with support from the University’s Strategic Research Fund, Oxford Global Health is an interdisciplinary initiative that brings together researchers to address complex health challenges and strengthen the coherence and visibility of Oxford’s global health work. 

During Professor Bernstein’s tenure, the initiative launched interdisciplinary programmes in fungal biology in health and disease; climate change and child mental health; convened a major meeting on malaria control; and hosted the first Oxford Global Health Summit, which set a shared direction for future work. 

Reflecting on his time as Director, Professor Bernstein said:  

“It has been a privilege to launch Oxford’s initiative in global health and to work with an outstanding team at Oxford Global Health, alongside colleagues across departments, divisions, colleges and the Oxford Martin School. Together, we have laid strong foundations for a more connected and ambitious approach to global health. 

I am deeply grateful to everyone who has made my time here so enjoyable, stimulating and worthwhile. I have no doubt that Oxford Global Health will be in excellent hands under the leadership of Professors Susanna Dunachie and Caesar Atuire.”  

Professor Gavin Screaton said: 

“I would like to thank Alan for his leadership in establishing Oxford Global Health and for the energy and clarity he brought to shaping its direction. In a short period, he has strengthened collaboration and raised the profile of Oxford’s global health expertise. The initiative is now well placed to build on these foundations.” 

Professor Susanna Dunachie said: 

“Oxford has extraordinary breadth and depth in global health, and as Co-Director I want to help shape its next phase. That means linking together researchers across the University who work across the sciences, humanities and social sciences to strengthen our interdisciplinary approach and fostering strong partnerships with international collaborators and stakeholders. By creating space for inclusive research, we can deepen collaboration and expand the areas in which Oxford makes a difference.”  

Professor Caesar Atuire said: 

“Global health is ultimately about lives and livelihoods. It is not only science and medicine, but also ethics, histories, cultures and politics. As Co-Director, I want to foster work grounded in solidarity and shaped by the social, economic and historical realities people face, so that we are better equipped to tackle the health challenges of our time.”