Top NIH Official Lawrence Tabak Abruptly Retires After Decades of Service

Tabak, who led the NIH during the COVID-19 pandemic, steps down as the agency faces leadership changes and funding uncertainties.

Dr. Lawrence Tabak, the NIH's second-in-command and former acting director, has retired effective February 11, 2025, after 25 years at the agency.
Tabak's departure follows scrutiny over NIH-funded gain-of-function research and handling of COVID-19 genomic data, as well as GOP investigations into the origins of the virus.
The resignation coincides with significant upheaval at the NIH, including proposed federal workforce reductions and cuts to research funding under the Trump administration.
Tabak's retirement comes just days before Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s confirmation as Secretary of Health and Human Services, who has signaled plans to reduce NIH staffing.
The NIH has yet to comment on Tabak's sudden exit, which has been met with both criticism and praise for his long-standing contributions to public health and biomedical research.