Ted Thurn

About Ted Thurn

Strategic leader with 15+ years of experience delivering results in high-risk, high-complexity environments across government, biotech, finance, and global operations. I specialize in designing and executing risk mitigation strategies at scale—combining regulatory insight, operational leadership, and deep technical knowledge to address emerging threats.I’ve built and led cross-functional teams to deliver compliance, security, and crisis response solutions in over 80 countries. My expertise spans regulatory strategy, emerging technologies, budget oversight, biosecurity governance, and enterprise risk. I excel at navigating ambiguity, aligning stakeholders, and driving transformation across large, matrixed organizations.At the core, my work is about protecting critical assets—people, technologies, and institutions—through smarter systems and stronger partnerships.

Experience

1. Deputy Director, Acting

   U.S. Department Of State

   Apr 2025 — Present · Washington, DC, US

   Senior leader for a high-impact national security programs with a $160M+ global portfolio. Guide strategy, operations, and partnerships addressing AI, CBRN, financial, sanctions, and biotech risks across 80+ countries. Represent the Department and drive international policymaking, while mentoring a fast-growing team of technical and policy experts.

Education

• Loyola University Chicago

  Bachelor of Science (B.S.), Biology, General

  1998 — 2002

• Northwestern University

  Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.), Life Sciences (Molecular Biology Track)

  2004 — 2009