Ambassador-at-Large, Deborah L. Birx, M.D., is the Coordinator of the United States Government Activities to Combat HIV/AIDS and US Special Representative for Global Health Diplomacy. Her three-decade-long career has focused on HIV/AIDS immunology, vaccine research, and global health. As the US Global AIDS Coordinator, Ambassador Birx oversees the implementation of PEPFAR and all US government engagement with the Global Fund. Serving as the US Special Representative for Global Health Diplomacy, she aligns the US government's diplomacy with foreign assistance programs that address global health challenges. Ambassador Birx began her career with the US Department of Defense as a military-trained clinician in immunology, focusing on HIV/AIDS vaccine research. She reached the rank of Colonel and was awarded two prestigious US Meritorious Service Medals and the Legion of Merit Award for her groundbreaking research, leadership and management skills.