Theodore Dougenik

Theodore J. Dougenik became chief of NICHD’s Ethics Branch in August 2024 after serving briefly as acting chief. Prior to this, he was the branch’s deputy chief. In this pivotal role, Mr. Dougenik coordinates with the deputy ethics counselor to strategize, oversee, and execute a robust ethics program that aligns with guidelines established by the U.S. Office of Government Ethics, HHS, and NIH.

Mr. Dougenik previously served as the ethics coordinator at the NIH Office of the Director (OD) Ethics Office. During his tenure, he managed a large-scale ethics program with a staff of more than 3,000 employees. Noteworthy accomplishments included orchestrating the integration of the ethics offices from both the Office of Research Services and the Office of Research Facilities into the OD Ethics Office. He also helped build and support a cohesive team of five ethics specialists.

Mr. Dougenik earned an associate’s degree, summa cum laude, in business administration from Manchester Community College in Connecticut, and a bachelor’s degree in nutritional science, with a minor in kinesiology, from Pennsylvania State University. Beyond his professional endeavors, he is an accomplished endurance runner, having conquered notable marathons in Chicago, New York City, Berlin, and Rio de Janeiro. He also finds joy in traveling the globe, immersing himself in diverse cultures, and indulging in a variety of cuisines.