Dr. Francis Collins / Photo courtesy NIH
Amid layoffs and funding cuts made by the federal administration, former National Institutes of Health (NIH) Director Dr. Francis Collins said it is a “remarkably difficult time” for the agency.
He is “deeply troubled” about the major changes imposed on the “crown jewel of the federal government.” Collins spoke during a media briefing with County Executive Marc Elrich on Wednesday.
Researchers in the NIH Intramural Research Program are hamstrung, “not being given the opportunity to order supplies, travel is prohibited.” Collins noted that more than 1,100 employees were cut last month.
He said some of those employees have been invited back, “but a gray cloud is looming over NIH now” with reductions in force being required.
Elrich said companies around the world recognize NIH and FDA as leading institutions — “One of the interests people have in coming to America is the ability to partner with and work with NIH, and to look at the things that come out of NIH as opportunities for moving drug development further.”
“If NIH can’t fulfill that goal, there will be less reason for top scientists and companies to come to the United States,” Elrich said. “This will not end well for America,”
Earlier this month, hundreds rallied to support NIH in Bethesda and to protest job cuts made by the federal administration.
Collins lives in the county and recently retired from NIH after more than 30 years with the agency, including more than a decade as director. He said he is hopeful with Tuesday’s confirmation of Dr. Jay Bhattacharya as the next NIH director.
