Title: Senior Program Officer
Company: Patient Centered Outcomes Research Institute
Location: Rockville, Maryland, United States
Godfrey Benjamin Woelk, PhD, senior program officer at Patient Centered Outcomes Research Institute, has been recognized by Marquis Who’s Who Top Executives for dedication, achievements, and leadership in scientific research and administration.
Drawing on over 20 years of professional expertise in patient-centered research, HIV/AIDS prevention, care, and treatment, Dr. Godfrey B. Woelk stands as a distinguished figure in the field. Currently serving as a senior program officer with the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute, he provides invaluable scientific oversight for a diverse portfolio of funded research awards.
Prior to assuming his current role, Dr. Woelk held the position of director of global implementation research at the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation for a significant tenure spanning from 2011 to 2024. During this time, he provided leadership and technical oversight for global implementation research activities, contributing significantly to the foundation’s mission of combatting pediatric AIDS worldwide. Before his tenure at the foundation, he served as a senior research epidemiologist at RTI International, where he played a pivotal role in international health programs from 2007 to 2011.
Dr. Woelk’s academic journey began with his undergraduate studies, culminating in a Bachelor of Science in sociology from the University of Zimbabwe in 1976. He continued his educational pursuits with a Master of Community Health from the University of Liverpool, England, in 1981, and further advanced his expertise with a PhD in epidemiology from the University of Washington in 1996.
Throughout his illustrious career, Dr. Woelk has made significant contributions to the academic community and public health sector. His work has been featured in numerous publications and journals, reflecting his commitment to advancing knowledge and understanding in the field. Noteworthy publications include “Supporting adolescents living with HIV within boarding schools in Kenya” and “Uptake of and intention to use oral pre-exposure prophylaxis for HIV among pregnant and post-natal women in Eswatini: A cross-sectional survey.”
In recognition of his outstanding contributions, Dr. Woelk has received several grants and awards, including the RTI International Career Author Award in 2008 and the Rockefeller Dissertation Internship Award in 1993. He was also honored with a Kellogg International Study Grant Fellowship in 1992 and a Kellogg International Leadership Fellowship in 1990.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Dr. Woelk remains actively involved in various civic and professional organizations, including the Kellogg Fellows Leadership Alliance and EquiNet. He has held leadership positions and contributed to the advancement of public health initiatives both locally and internationally.
Looking ahead, Dr. Woelk is committed to continuing his efforts in patient-centered research and health care delivery. He emphasizes the importance of grit, determination, and staying focused on one’s goals as essential qualities for success in the industry. In his personal life, he enjoys hobbies such as gardening, cooking, and baking.
In reflection, Dr. Woelk attributes his achievements to the support of mentors, the opportunities presented to him, and a bit of luck. He highlights moments such as his tenure at the University of Zimbabwe, where he introduced new academic courses and developed innovative programs, as defining points in his career. His dedication to advancing global health and his unwavering commitment to making a positive impact serve as inspirations for aspiring professionals in the field.
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