Stewart Cole serves as the Director General of the prestigious Institut Pasteur in Paris, a position he assumed in January 2018 following his appointment by the institution's board of directors for a four-year mandate. An internationally recognized scientific figure with dual Franco-British heritage, Cole previously held a professorship in microbial pathogenesis at the École polytechnique fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) since 2007, where he directed the Global Health Institute. Before his tenure at EPFL, he dedicated 24 years to the Institut Pasteur, serving in various research leadership capacities including Strategic Technologies Director and Scientific Director. His deep institutional knowledge and scientific expertise made him the natural choice to lead the organization that bears Louis Pasteur's name into its next era of discovery.
Professor Cole has authored over 350 scientific publications focused on infectious diseases, with particular expertise in tuberculosis and leprosy research. His groundbreaking work in microbial pathogenesis has led to significant advancements in understanding the genetic mechanisms of tuberculosis infection, for which the World Health Organization awarded him the prestigious STOP-TB Partnership Kochon Prize in 2009. During his earlier career at the Institut Pasteur, he contributed to multiple patent filings in critical areas including HIV, cervical cancer, and drug-resistant tuberculosis. His research has not only advanced fundamental scientific understanding but has also paved the way for innovative therapeutic strategies against some of the world's most persistent infectious diseases.
Beyond his research contributions, Cole has been instrumental in shaping global infectious disease research through his participation in scientific councils of Pasteur Institutes in Tehran, Montevideo, and Lille, demonstrating his commitment to international scientific collaboration. In recognition of his exceptional service to science, he was honored with membership in the Legion of Honour, France's highest distinction. Having previously served as interim Director General of the Institut Pasteur in Paris in 2005, he brings seasoned leadership to his current role, where he is tasked with developing strategic plans to enhance the institution's scientific excellence in service of global health. Under his guidance, the Institut Pasteur continues to advance its mission of improving health worldwide through cutting-edge research and innovation in infectious disease prevention and treatment.
