NIH selects UAB’s Dr. Jeanne Marrazzo to replace Dr. Anthony Fauci
Dr. Jeanne Marrazzo speaks during a press conference September 3, 2020.
Officials with the National Institutes of Health (NIH) have selected UAB infectious disease specialist Dr. Jeanne Marrazzo to replace Dr. Anthony Fauci as the next director of National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID).
“Dr. Marrazzo brings a wealth of leadership experience from leading international clinical trials and translational research, managing a complex organizational budget that includes research funding and mentoring trainees in all stages of professional development,” said Dr. Lawrence Tabak, acting director for the NIH, in an announcement Wednesday.
Marrazzo has directed UAB’s Division of Infectious Diseases since 2016 and has been a leading voice throughout the COVID-19 pandemic for both local and national audiences.
“Jeanne 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,” UAB president Ray Watts said in a statement. “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.”
Marrazzo obtained her bachelor’s in biology from Harvard University, a medical degree from Thomas Jefferson University and a Master of Public Health in Epidemiology from the University of Washington. Her research has focused on the human microbiome, including female reproductive tract infections, and sexually transmitted diseases like HIV.
In her new role at the NIH, Marrazzo will oversee a $6.3 billion budget that funds nationwide research into new therapies, vaccines and diagnostic technologies for a range of infectious diseases. According to NIH officials, she is expected to begin the position this fall.
Despite stiff opposition, Bessemer changes its laws to accommodate data centers
Residents in and around Bessemer expressed continued disapproval of a plan to build a 14.5 million square foot data center in their back yards. Now, the city is one step closer to final approval.
This #MeToo melodrama isn’t great, but Julia Roberts’ performance is
Roberts plays a Yale professor whose life unravels after one of her colleagues is accused of sexually assaulting a student. After the Hunt is an academic potboiler that muddles its central issue.
What to know about the Nobel Peace Prize
Anticipation is growing and bookies around the world are taking bets on who'll be awarded this year's Nobel Peace Prize. Here is what to know ahead of the award announcement this week.
The 10th and final escapee from a New Orleans jailbreak is captured after five months
Ten men escaped the Orleans Parish Justice Center through a hole in the wall behind a toilet on May 16. Most were captured within days, but Derrick Groves managed to elude authorities until Wednesday.
Why being in credit card debt doesn’t mean you’re bad with money
Financial educators bust three common myths about credit card debt — and explain why these negative assumptions can hold us back from making smart money decisions.
Pope Leo says faith and love for migrants are connected
In his first major document as leader of the Catholic Church, Pope Leo urges nations and believers to care for the poorest in society.
