Endocrine Insider
July 9, 2009

Francis S. Collins, MD PhD, President Obama’s nominee for Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), presented a widely attended lecture as part of ENDO 09’s “Endocrinology and Society” noon plenary series.  Dr. Collins received high praise from ENDO attendees.  At the time, it was rumored that Dr. Collins was under consideration for the NIH post, and many who heard his talk remarked that he would be an ideal candidate. On July 8, President Obama announced his intention to nominate Dr. Collins to head the agency.

In addition to having led the Human Genome Project and the National Human Genome Research Institute, Dr. Collins has produced seminal work in the genetic basis of disease, including the identification of genes implicated in type 2 diabetes and other endocrine disorders.  His nomination to lead the NIH demonstrates the Obama administration’s commitment to excellence in American science.