Marcel Tanner

Marcel Tanner has transformed global health research and implementation over four decades through his groundbreaking work combining laboratory science with field applications. After earning his PhD in Medical Biology from the University of Basel and MPH from the University of London, he built an extraordinary career spanning basic research to health systems strengthening. As Director of the Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute (1997-2015) and President of the Swiss Academy of Sciences (2016-2023), he has authored over 800 peer-reviewed papers while establishing major research centers across Africa. His pioneering work includes leading the first field trials of malaria vaccines, founding the Medicines for Malaria Venture, and transforming the Ifakara Health Institute in Tanzania into a world-class research organization. Through his leadership of multiple global health initiatives and commitment to capacity building in low-income countries, he has shaped modern approaches to tropical disease research while mentoring generations of scientists. His research spans from molecular studies of parasites to health systems strengthening, particularly in Tanzania, Chad, Burkina Faso and Côte d'Ivoire.