Frank Rühli

Frank Rühli is a Professor and Founding Director of the Institute of Evolutionary Medicine at the University of Zurich. He holds a dual role as Co-Head of the Evolutionary Pathophysiology and Mummy Studies Group. His academic background includes a Medical Degree from the University of Zurich, a PhD in Biological Anthropology from the University of Adelaide, and an EMBA from the University of Zurich. Rühli specializes in evolutionary medicine, paleopathology, and mummy studies, with a focus on uncovering ancient disease patterns and their relevance to modern health. He has led international projects, including studies on Ötzi the Iceman and Egyptian mummies, and pioneered non-destructive imaging techniques for historical specimens.

• Director of the Institute of Evolutionary Medicine (since 2014)
• Former Head of the Center of Evolutionary Medicine (2010–2014)
• Member of the Swiss School of Public Health and Steering Committee of the Zurich Center for Experimental and Clinical Imaging Technologies (EXCITE)

His research integrates archaeology, anthropology, and medicine to explore human adaptation and disease evolution. Notable contributions include work on ancient pathogens, such as influenza and Yersinia pestis, and the analysis of lifestyle impacts on health over millennia. Rühli also advises on cultural heritage preservation, including roles with the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology and the Swiss Mummy Project.

Publications span evolutionary medicine, paleopathology, and global health trends, with a focus on interdisciplinary approaches. He co-edited the Weissbuch Corona: Die Schweiz nach der Pandemie, analyzing Switzerland’s pandemic response. His academic leadership includes editorial roles at journals like Evolution, Medicine and Public Health and Homo - Journal of Comparative Human Biology.