Neal D. Barnard is an American physician and researcher born in Fargo, North Dakota in 1953. He is the founding president of the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM), an organization focused on promoting ethical and evidence-based medical practice. Barnard has established himself as an advocate for plant-based nutrition and has authored multiple books on the subject of whole-food, plant-based diets. His work combines medical research with dietary advocacy, promoting the health benefits of plant-based eating. Beyond his medical practice and dietary advocacy, Barnard is recognized as an animal rights advocate. His professional work spans medicine, research, and public health education.