Paul S. Keim, Ph.D. – Founding Board Member

Dr. Keim is the Director of the Pathogen Genomics Division of Translational Genomics Research Institute (TGen) and a Regents Professor and holder of the Cowden Endowed Chair in Microbiology at Northern Arizona University. His research focuses on the advancement of forensics and genomics analysis of bacterial pathogens. To date his work in pathogen genomics has focused on bolstering of bio-defense through improved forensic analysis, understanding interactions between man and microbe to develop new therapeutics and diagnostics that will alleviate the human ailments caused by dangerous pathogens. His research contributes to our growing understanding of infectious disease movement to reduce and control the incidence of these life threatening diseases.

Dr. Keim is internationally renowned for his work in high-resolution genomic forensic analysis of biothreat pathogenic agents such as Bacillus anthracis (anthrax). His recent activities for the FBI were instrumental in bringing the 9/11 anthrax attack investigations to closure. Anthrax is considered one of the most dangerous of the bacterial bioterrorism and bioweapons agents.

Dr. Keim received his undergraduate degree in Biology and Chemistry in 1977 at Northern Arizona University and his Ph.D. in 1981 at University of Kansas. Dr. Keim has been a professor at Northern Arizona University since 1989. He has over 200 publications in the leading scientific journals.