Epidemiologist
Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania
Nkuchia M’ikanatha is a leading epidemiologist focused on antimicrobial resistance, at the Pennsylvania Department of Health and he is a research associate at the University of Pennsylvania. Additionally, he divides his time between his work and his home in Kenya. He focuses on improving infectious disease surveillance and collaborates with national agencies like the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). He also contributes to the field as an Associate Editor for the CDC journal, Emerging Infectious Diseases and co-author of two influential textbooks.
M’ikanatha actively participates in global health initiatives, volunteering for antimicrobial resistance response and co-founding the Meru Initiative, which addresses the health effects of climate change. His background includes training at the CDC and research experience in countries such as South Africa, Israel, and Kenya.
Beyond his professional pursuits, M’ikanatha enjoys outdoor activities, cultural exploration, and playing mancala, reflecting his connection to his Kenyan heritage.