Trump Taps Jay Bhattacharya As Director Of The National Institutes Of Health
Trump Taps Jay Bhattacharya As Director Of The National Institutes Of Health
President Donald Trump on Tuesday announced his intention to nominate Stanford University Professor Jay Bhattacharya as the next director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the federal government's foremost medical research agency.
Background
Bhattacharya is a prominent epidemiologist and professor of health policy at Stanford University School of Medicine. He is known for his research on the health effects of air pollution and poverty, as well as his work on the economic evaluation of healthcare interventions.
Key Facts and Latest Updates
If confirmed by the Senate, Bhattacharya would become the first physician-scientist to lead the NIH since 2002. He would succeed Francis Collins, who is stepping down after 13 years as director.
"Dr. Bhattacharya is a world-renowned scientist and a brilliant mind," Trump said in a statement. "He will bring a fresh perspective to the NIH and help us continue to make groundbreaking discoveries that will save lives and improve the health of all Americans."
Bhattacharya's nomination has been met with some concern from some scientists, who worry that his views on COVID-19 may influence his leadership of the NIH. Bhattacharya has been a vocal critic of lockdowns and other public health measures aimed at containing the virus.
Analysis
Bhattacharya's nomination is likely to spark a debate over the role of science in public policy. His supporters argue that his independent thinking will bring a much-needed fresh perspective to the NIH, while his critics worry that his views on COVID-19 could undermine the agency's work.
Conclusion
The Senate is expected to vote on Bhattacharya's nomination in the coming months. If confirmed, he would take over as NIH director in January 2021.