Dr. Francis Collins, a renowned geneticist and former director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), has retired, leaving behind an agency facing budget cuts and significant layoffs. Collins, who played a pivotal role in mapping the human genome and advancing treatments for diseases like cystic fibrosis, cancer, and COVID-19, served as NIH director for 12 years under Presidents Obama, Trump, and Biden.
In his farewell statement, Collins praised NIH researchers for their dedication and urged Americans to respect and support their work. While he did not specify a reason for his sudden departure, he defended the agency’s critical role in life-saving medical breakthroughs. Known for his efforts to bridge science and faith, Collins has been a strong advocate for biomedical research and innovation throughout his career.
