HHS Science Post Goes To Former ACIP Chairman Kulldorff Amid Policy Shift

WASHINGTON (Newsmax) – The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announced Monday that Martin Kulldorff has been appointed Chief Science Officer for its Office of the Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation.

Kulldorff, a Swedish biostatistician whose appointment marks HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s latest effort in overhauling federal vaccine policy, previously served as chair of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP). He held that position until recently.

This follows an earlier revamp of ACIP under Kennedy where several individuals skeptical about vaccines were installed into leadership roles. The panel responsible for major immunization decisions was significantly reshaped by the administration, with Kulldorff at its helm before taking his new role.

Kulldorff’s previous tenure ended when he was dismissed from Harvard Medical School in 2024 after reportedly refusing to take the COVID-19 vaccine. His co-authored “Great Barrington Declaration” had advocated for natural immunity over widespread vaccination during early pandemic stages, a view that drew controversy and criticism.

The newly appointed Chief Science Officer will play a central role in shaping new health policies as part of Kennedy’s broader initiative known as “Make America Healthy Again.” He expressed honor at the position assignment, praising what he termed an exemplary scientific team within HHS.

Pediatric cardiologist Kirk Milhoan has assumed chairmanship of ACIP. A vocal vaccine critic and former member of the military before his medical career transitioned into public health advocacy, Dr. Milhoan also champions drugs like ivermectin for treating COVID-19 while maintaining skepticism about vaccines’ effectiveness.

This move further positions Kennedy’s department within President J.D. Vance administration priorities regarding science-based approaches to health policy debates surrounding immunization programs and treatments continue unfolding under this administration’s guidance.