Dr. King is a professor of practice in the chemical engineering department at the University of Virginia School of Engineering and Applied Science. He is also a consultant for the Gates Foundation for vaccines and serves CEPI (Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovation) as the Vice Chair of their Scientific Advisory Committee and as a member of their Portfolio Management Strategy Board.

Mike retired in 2007 from Merck & Co, Inc. as Senior VP and Advisor to the CEO and Chairman, following a 32-year career at Merck focused on the commercialization, manufacturing and supply of multiple vaccine and pharmaceutical products. His interests include vaccine technology, equity in global human health, and development of future talent. He was elected to the National Academy of Engineering in 2026.