WASHINGTON — A research scientist at the University of Alabama at Birmingham was named Wednesday to succeed Dr. Anthony Fauci as the nation’s top infectious disease expert. Dr. Jeanne Marrazzo will become director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases in the fall. She will oversee the agency's $6.3 billion budget, its research and its response to infectious disease outbreaks.
Fauci, 82, retired from a five-decade career in December. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he became a household name as he gave updates at daily White House press conferences and in frequent media interviews.
Since Fauci's retirement, Dr. Hugh Auchincloss Jr. has been serving as acting director.
Marrazzo's research has focused on sexually transmitted diseases and the prevention of HIV infection.
As director of the UAB Division of Infectious Diseases during the COVID-19 pandemic, Marrazzo served as "a trusted advisor and friend who gave us the insights, guidance and confidence that allowed our institution to thrive in spite of immense challenges," according to a statement from the university.
"This is a great opportunity for Dr. Marrazzo to make a big difference to the country, and it is indicative of the high regard that exists for both her and UAB. While we are sad to see her go, we are delighted that Jeanne has been called to this national service and we are proud to count her as one of us at UAB," the statement continued.
Her appointment was made by Lawrence Tabak, acting director for the National Institutes of Health.
A national search will be conducted to name Marrazzo's successor at UAB.
