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ZERHOUNI ENDS TENURE AS NIH
DIRECTOR
Dear Friends and Colleagues in the extramural
community,
Today, I informed my NIH colleagues, including
staff, scientists, administrators, contractors, and
trainees that at the end of October, I will be
leaving my position as NIH Director to explore new
opportunities and to devote much of my attention to
writing.
I have said repeatedly that NIH is one of the
true “wonders of the world.” For over
six years, I have had the unparalleled privilege of
leading one of the great institutions in history.
Whenever an individual participates in a clinical
trial or prevention effort, visits the doctor,
stays in the hospital, has a medical test, or
undergoes a procedure or treatment, they are
benefiting from the extraordinary contribution you
make to NIH’s single, great mission:
improving the public’s health.
NIH has also been in the spotlight during a
revolution in the biomedical sciences, one that
continues to have broad and profound implications
for academic institutions, industry, nonprofits,
professional and scientific organizations, the
health care profession, Government, and most
important, for the health of the world. I am
extremely fortunate to have led NIH during these
unique times, which have brought with them complex
challenges and amazing opportunities.
Your work will continue to transform the future
of the agency and to play a key role in that
revolution. Every day, people benefit from new
treatments and potential cures for disabling and
fatal conditions that result from your commitment
and tireless dedication, even in the presence of
complex problems and unprecedented challenges.
As recipients of NIH funding, you are among the
world’s best, brightest, and most innovative
scientists in a most competitive and challenging
era for all of us. It is because of you and your
contributions to science and health that NIH is
known as the “crown jewel” agency of the
federal government and you have every right to
claim a stake in the agency’s success.
I also want to take this occasion to express my
deep personal appreciation to the countless
grantees who selflessly serve the NIH as volunteers
on study sections, advisory councils and the many
other activities the agency often calls upon you to
join.
I know that my sentiments are shared by my
colleagues at the NIH, and our gratitude runs deep.
We are grateful for your support and the
contributions you make every day.
Please feel free to distribute this message to
your colleagues.
Sincerely,
Elias A. Zerhouni, M.D.
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