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On November 26, 2024, President-Elect Donald Trump nominated Jay Bhattacharya, M.D., Ph.D., as the 18th NIH director. The nomination awaits confirmation by the U.S. Senate. On January 17, 2025, Monica M. Bertagnolli, M.D., ended her tenure as the 17th NIH director.
Appointment of the Â鶹´«Ã½ Director
The position of the Â鶹´«Ã½ Director became presidentially appointed with the passage of the National Cancer Act of 1971 and Senate confirmed with the National Cancer Act Amendments of 1974. Prior to 1971, all Â鶹´«Ã½ Directors were appointed by the Surgeon General, with the exception of Robert Q. Marston, who was appointed by the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare. Acting Directors are selected by the Secretary of Health and Human Services and hold the position until the President nominates a new director who is confirmed by the Senate.
Previous Â鶹´«Ã½ Directors
Monica M. Bertagnolli, M.D.
Director, November 9, 2023 – January 17, 2025
Lawrence A. Tabak
Acting Director, December 20, 2021 – November 8, 2023
Francis S. Collins
Director, August 17, 2009 – December 19, 2021
Raynard S. Kington
Acting Director, October 31, 2008 – August 16, 2009
Elias A. Zerhouni
Director, May 2, 2002 – October 31, 2008
Ruth L. Kirschstein
Acting Director, January 1, 2000 – May 2, 2002
Harold E. Varmus
Director, November 23, 1993 – December 31, 1999