Sir Peter Gluckman is a world-renowned biomedical scientist and distinguished leader in translational medicine and science policy. He currently serves as Distinguished University Professor at the University of Auckland where he heads Koi Tū: The Centre for Informed Futures and previously founded the Liggins Institute. Originally trained as a pediatrician and biomedical scientist, Gluckman established himself as a leading researcher in developmental physiology before taking on major national and international leadership roles. From 2009 to 2018, he served as New Zealand's first Chief Science Advisor to the Prime Minister, pioneering the role of evidence-based science advice in government decision-making. His career trajectory reflects a unique blend of deep scientific expertise and influential policy engagement at the highest levels.
Gluckman's foundational research in developmental and perinatal physiology has significantly advanced understanding of how early life experiences shape long-term health outcomes, with over 750 scientific publications spanning endocrinology, neurodevelopment, and evolutionary biology. His work demonstrating the critical importance of the developmental origins of health and disease has influenced global health policy and clinical practice, particularly regarding maternal and child health interventions. As a prolific author, he has edited eight books and written extensively on translating biomedical discoveries into practical health applications. His leadership in organizations such as the World Health Organization has brought international recognition to the importance of healthy starts to life.
Beyond his research contributions, Gluckman has been instrumental in shaping science policy frameworks globally as President of the International Science Council and former chair of the International Network of Government Science Advice from 2014 to 2021. He co-founded the Centre for Science for Policy, Diplomacy and Society at the University of Auckland, creating a vital nexus between scientific evidence and policymaking. His current work at Koi Tū focuses on addressing complex societal challenges through evidence-informed futures thinking, particularly regarding emerging technologies and social cohesion. Gluckman continues to be a leading voice in international science diplomacy, advocating for evidence-based approaches to global challenges while receiving numerous prestigious accolades. He remains actively engaged in mentoring the next generation of scientist-policy advisors worldwide through his academic and international leadership roles.
