During his time in medical school, Matthew Dolan ’81 briefly entertained the idea of focusing on orthopedic surgery due to the materials science aspects of the field — yet he quickly recognized that he lacked the natural abilities necessary for that specialty.
“To be candid — I can’t parallel park,” he jokes. “You can contemplate various pathways, but if you discover what you excel at and what inspires you, you can hopefully progress with those.”
Dolan has undoubtedly progressed, addressing challenges from laboratory research to clinical applications and beyond. Both domestically and internationally through the U.S. Air Force, Dolan has emerged as a distinguished figure in immunology and virology, having served as director of the Defense Institute for Medical Operations. He has engaged with issues ranging from foodborne diseases and Ebola to bioweapons and Covid-19, and has even appeared as a speaker on NPR’s “Science Friday”.
“This is enjoyable and fascinating, and I firmly believe that — plus it’s infectious,” he states. “You can influence others with that enthusiasm.”
Pieces of the puzzle
Dolan fondly remembers his time at MIT and maintains contact with several of the “brilliant” and “fascinating” friends he formed relationships with while in Cambridge.
He emphasizes that the challenges which proved to be the most fulfilling in his professional journey were those for which MIT had specifically equipped him. As a Course 7 major, Dolan took numerous courses beyond biology during his undergraduate years: organic chemistry was crucial for grasping toxicology in the context of chemical warfare, whereas pathogens like Legionella, which leads to pneumonia and can propagate via water systems such as ice makers or air conditioning units, are addressed at the intersection of public health and ecology.
“I discovered that education can be an intense journey,” Dolan reflects. “You can be proactive in your learning; you can master a diverse array of topics and gather extensive knowledge and skilled individuals to collaborate on solutions.”
For instance, Dolan worked in the Amazon Basin of Peru during a public health emergency characterized by a significant surge in childhood mortality linked to malaria. The underlying cause was somewhat distant from the immediate issue: human agricultural activities had impacted the tributaries of the Amazon, resulting in stagnant water where there had previously been flowing streams. This alteration in the ecosystem permitted a certain mosquito species, known for its “avid human biting,” to flourish.
“Having a comprehensive and contextual perspective on scientific and biological challenges can be beneficial and vital for some individuals,” he remarks. “It’s tremendously gratifying to assemble the pieces of a puzzle like that.”
Choosing to serve
Dolan believes a crucial aspect of discovering meaning in his endeavors, particularly during challenging periods, stems from a thought by Alsatian thinker and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Albert Schweitzer: “The only ones among you who will be truly content are those who will have sought and found how to serve.”
One of Dolan’s significant early experiences occurred in the midst of the HIV/AIDS crisis, at a time when no effective therapies existed. Regardless of his efforts, the patients continued to succumb.
“Failure is not an option — unless it’s unavoidable. You cannot allow setbacks to undermine you,” he asserts. “There are numerous other challenges out there, and it’s self-serving to overlook them while dwelling on your own misfortune.”
Lasting impacts
Dolan finds it challenging to choose a preferred country, but he consistently feels admiration for how individuals cherish the opportunity to thrive in science and medicine when provided with resources and appreciation. Ultimately, everyone he has collaborated with, regardless of their differences, shared a dedication to resolving issues and enhancing lives.
Dolan contributed his expertise in Russia following the fall of the Berlin Wall, focusing on HIV/AIDS in Moscow and tuberculosis in the Russian Far East. Although current relations with Russia are undeniably strained, Dolan remains hopeful for a more promising future.
“Individuals who were once fierce opponents can ultimately collaborate effectively,” he observes. “At times, peace fosters partnership. Remembering that it was previously achievable gives me considerable hope.”
Dolan recognizes that the most enduring impact he has made is likely through education: Time progresses, and findings may fade from memory, but educating and mentoring others persists and proliferates. In addition to nurturing the next generation of healthcare professionals, Dolan has also developed programs in laboratory biosafety and biosecurity in collaboration with the U.S. departments of State and Defense, disseminating those programs globally.
“Engaging in prevention allows you to address process issues before they escalate into patient care challenges,” he expresses. “I have been continually impressed with the brave and selfless individuals who have joined me.”