PORTFOLIO

Dr SS Lal

Dr. SS Lal offers a wide range of expert services in global public health, drawing on over 25 years of international leadership experience. His work spans infectious disease control, antimicrobial resistance, digital health innovation, and health systems strengthening. He collaborates with governments, UN agencies, academic institutions, and private sector stakeholders across Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas. As a mentor and educator, he guides postgraduate students and health professionals in research, policy, and practice. Through these services, Dr. Lal continues to influence global health outcomes and shape evidence-based interventions.

Achievements

2024-2025

Appointed Director, Asia-Pacific for ReAct – Action on Antibiotic Resistance, leading regional antimicrobial resistance initiatives.
Actively advising health ministries, regulatory bodies, and civil society on AMR policy and stewardship.

2021–2023

Served as Senior Public Health Expert, UNEP, Geneva – Led health system upgrades in Ogoniland, Nigeria under HYPREP.
Visiting Professor at Wayanad Institute of Medical Sciences.
Director – Public Health, Wadhwani Foundation, leading digital transformation in health with the Indian Ministry of Health.

2019–2020

2013–2018

2008–2013

Global Director for Infectious Diseases (TB Portfolio) at FHI 360, Washington DC – Oversaw TB/HIV global technical direction and digital health innovations.
Founded and led the Global Foundation for Health and Hygiene (GFHH), USA as President.

Technical Director, PATH, Washington DC – Led global TB program across 22 countries; pioneered public-private partnerships using digital tools in Mumbai.
Represented PATH in WHO’s TB Strategic and Technical Advisory Committee (STAG).

Held senior roles at The Global Fund, Geneva:
Senior Fund Portfolio Manager (East Asia & Pacific)
Senior Specialist – Impact & Evaluation
Led global grant performance reviews and advised countries on drug-resistant TB programs.

1999–2008

With WHO India and East Timor – Pioneered national PPM strategies for TB control; helped Kerala become the first Indian state with 100% DOTS coverage.
Created national guidelines for TB program monitoring and private sector engagement.
Supported national HIV-TB co-management initiatives.

1996–1999

1990–1996

Served as Epidemiologist and Assistant Surgeon for the Kerala Government.
Contributed to the revision of Kerala State Health Policy.
Earned MPH degree during government deputation.

Early career in clinical practice, research, and social health projects.
Served as Project Officer for international NGO in drug de-addiction and HIV awareness.
Co-founded emergency care initiative “ACT Force” and youth-led public health movements.