David Morens

David M. Morens is an American physician-scientist, medical historian and former Senior Advisor to the Director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID).

Early life and education Morens earned an A.B. in psychology (1969) and an M.D. (1973) from the University of Michigan. During this period he also published historical analyses of epidemics ranging from the Plague of Athens to 20th-century influenza.

NIAID (1998 – 2025) From 1998 to 2025, Morens advised successive NIAID directors on emerging-disease policy and pandemic preparedness. and conducted research on viral host-switching and disease pathogenesis in NIAID's Viral Pathogenesis and Evolution Laboratory. The indictment alleged Morens used a personal Gmail account for official business to intentionally avoid FOIA requests.

In August 2026, Morens pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit offenses and to defraud the United States.

Selected works

Professional service and honors President, American Epidemiological Society (2008–2009)