Dr. Francis Collins

Dr. Francis Collins has a distinguished track record in the field of biomedical research, as evidenced by his leadership roles in the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and his significant contributions to genetics. Appointed as the 16th Director of the NIH by President Barack Obama, Collins was sworn in on August 17, 2009, and has continued to serve in this capacity under successive administrations, including those of Presidents Donald Trump and Joe Biden. As the director of the largest supporter of biomedical research globally, his influence on the field is expansive and enduring.

Collins is a physician-geneticist whose contributions to disease gene discovery have been groundbreaking. His leadership of the international Human Genome Project, a significant scientific undertaking, has brought about a new understanding in the field of genetics and related diseases. These accomplishments have earned him prestigious memberships in the National Academy of Medicine and the National Academy of Sciences, marking him as a leader in his field.

Recognition for Collins's work has come in many forms. In November 2007, he was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, and in 2009, he received the National Medal of Science. Collins was elected as a Foreign Member of the Royal Society (UK) in 2020, further cementing his international standing in the scientific community. Additionally, he was named the 50th recipient of the Templeton Prize in 2020, a prestigious award that recognizes contributions to affirming life's spiritual dimension.