Dr. Richard Deckelbaum, Renowned Physician-Scientist, Former IHN Director, Passes Away
It is with great sadness that the Institute of Human Nutrition announces the passing of Dr. Richard J. Deckelbaum, an esteemed physician, scientist, and educator whose impactful career in the fields of nutrition and public health spanned decades. Dr. Deckelbaum, the Robert R. Williams Professor of Nutrition and the former Director of the Institute of Human Nutrition at Columbia University from 1992 to 2020, passed away on October 2, 2024.
Dr. Deckelbaum’s contributions to global nutrition and public health were significant. His research shaped our understanding of lipid metabolism, cardiovascular health, and nutrition, particularly in vulnerable populations. He was a pioneer in translating basic science into clinical and public health interventions, improving the lives of individuals in low- and middle-income countries through his work on malnutrition, micronutrient deficiencies, and childhood development.
Dr. Deckelbaum earned his medical degree from McGill University and completed his residency in pediatrics at the Montreal Children’s Hospital before embarking on a career that would bridge clinical medicine, research, and global health. His commitment to advancing human nutrition led to collaborations with organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, and numerous non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to address childhood malnutrition and the burden of chronic diseases.
Throughout his illustrious career at Columbia University, Dr. Deckelbaum was not only a prolific researcher but also a dedicated mentor to generations of students, fellows, and young faculty members. His mentorship and leadership were instrumental in shaping the next wave of scientists committed to improving global health through nutrition.
As Director of the Institute of Human Nutrition, Dr. Deckelbaum strengthened Columbia’s global health initiatives, expanding research partnerships in Africa, Latin America, and Asia. His work led to the implementation of innovative strategies to combat hunger and malnutrition, and his legacy will endure through the many programs and policies that he helped create. He established the first pediatric hospital in the West Bank and the Medical School for International Health at Ben Gurion in Tel Aviv. He was especially proud of his work in Africa, beginning with his work as a flying doctor in Zambia. Please see this profile in the Lancet in 2008 that lists many of his accomplishments.
Beyond his scientific achievements, Dr. Deckelbaum will be remembered for his warmth, generosity, and profound dedication to human rights and health equity. His passing is a great loss to the Columbia community and the global health field at large.
Dr. Deckelbaum is survived by his wife, Kaya, his children, Ariel, Dan, Michael, and Leona, his grandchildren, William, Katya, Noah, and Maya, his siblings, Steve and Joyce, his mother-in-law, Eni, as well as colleagues and countless students and friends who were touched by his wisdom and compassion.
The Institute of Human Nutrition extends its deepest condolences to his family and honors the memory of a man whose life’s work will continue to shape the future of nutrition for years to come. A memorial is being planned and more details will be forthcoming.