USA Department of Health and Human Services: Jaya Bhattacharya, a Kolkata-born economist and doctor based at Stanford University, is reportedly under consideration for the position of National Institutes of Health (NIH) director by U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, according to several media sources.  

This week, Bhattacharya met with Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who has been chosen by Trump to head the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The meeting reportedly left a strong impression on Kennedy, particularly regarding Bhattacharya’s vision for reshaping the NIH.  

The NIH, a premier U.S. agency for biomedical research, may see significant transformations under Bhattacharya’s leadership. His ideas emphasize advancing research, overhauling health policies, and creating new opportunities in the healthcare sector. Bhattacharya has outlined plans to modernize the NIH and improve its efficiency while focusing on innovative drug research and policy reforms to deliver enhanced health services to Americans.  

Trump is expected to make a decision on the appointment soon, with Bhattacharya emerging as a strong contender for the role. His forward-looking proposals aim to elevate the NIH’s role in fostering groundbreaking medical research and healthcare improvements.