Dr. Jeanne Marrazzo of the University of Alabama at Birmingham is replacing Dr. Anthony Fauci as director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, UAB announced. The institute is a division of the National Institutes of Health.

“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,” the school said. “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.”

According to the college, Marrazzo was instrumental in guiding the institution through the pandemic.

“As director of our Division of Infectious Diseases during the COVID-19 pandemic, 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,” the school said. “She also helped inform the world, as she participated in constant local, national and global media interviews throughout the pandemic, sharing critical information and perspectives.”

Marrazzo will oversee NIAID’s $6.3 billion budget which supports research to strengthen the understanding, diagnosis and treatment of infectious, immunologic, and allergic diseases.

Austen Shipley is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News.