Mark Holodniy

Mark Holodniy is a Professor of Medicine (Infectious Diseases) at Stanford University School of Medicine. He serves as Director of the Public Health National Program Office and Public Health Reference Laboratory for the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). His academic roles include being a Member of the Bio-X Program and holding administrative positions such as Chairman of the Administrative Panel on Biosafety (2017–Present). Dr. Holodniy’s research focuses on translational virology, clinical trials, and public health outcomes, with a strong emphasis on emerging infections and antiviral therapies.

Education:

• Bachelor of Science in Biology, Seattle University (1980)
• Doctor of Medicine, Northwestern University (1985)

Research Interests:

Dr. Holodniy leads initiatives in viral evolution, antiviral resistance, and clinical trials for infectious diseases. His work includes large-scale initiatives like the VA SeqFORCE program for SARS-CoV-2 genomic sequencing and the EPIC3 study tracking COVID-19 outcomes in veterans. He also investigates novel treatments for conditions like osteomyelitis and Clostridium difficile infections.

Clinical Trials:

He is Principal Investigator on trials such as the STRIVE trial (evaluating the antiviral ensitrelvir for hospitalized COVID-19 patients) and the Clostridium difficile vaccine efficacy trial. His trials emphasize improving outcomes for vulnerable populations.

Awards and Recognition:

• 2024 AMSUS Research and Development Award
• 2023 VA Clinical Innovation Award
• Fellowships from leading societies (IDSA, SHEA, American College of Physicians)

Labs and Teams:

As Director of the VA Public Health Reference Laboratory, he oversees critical research and diagnostic capabilities, contributing to national preparedness against emerging pathogens.