Dr. Robert W. Eisinger to serve as Acting Associate Director for AIDS Research, NIH

Dear Colleagues,

I am pleased to announce the selection of Robert Eisinger, Ph.D., as Acting Associate Director for AIDS Research and Acting Director, Office of AIDS Research (OAR).  As you know, Dr. Jack Whitescarver will step down from his post, effective July 1.  I know you join me in thanking Dr. Whitescarver for his tireless efforts, his service, and his many accomplishments as the Associate Director for AIDS Research/Director, OAR.

Since December 1, 2014, Dr. Eisinger has been serving as a Senior Health Science Policy Advisor in the NIH Division of Program Coordination, Planning, and Strategic Initiatives.  For the year prior to that time he was the Director, Office of Research and Science, in the Office of the U.S. Global AIDS Coordinator (OGAC) in the Department of State.  At the OGAC, he was responsible for managing a portfolio of three large international combination HIV prevention clinical studies, a program of implementation science and impact evaluation projects, as well as the Scientific Advisory Board for OGAC.  For 24 years prior to this, Dr. Eisinger served as the Director of Scientific and Program Operations, and Therapeutics Research Coordinator in the OAR at the NIH.  His career at the NIH began as a Program Virologist in the NIAID Division of AIDS where he coordinated the 45 Virology Laboratories supporting the AIDS clinical trials networks.  Before joining the NIH, Bob worked in the medical diagnostics industry successfully developing proprietary diagnostic immunoassay systems bringing these from the bench to clinical trials and through FDA licensure.  His postdoctoral training on the immunochemistry of cell surface antigens associated with murine alveolar cell carcinomas was conducted at the Oak Ridge National Laboratories in conjunction with the University of Tennessee.  Dr. Eisinger received his Ph.D. in Microbiology from North Texas State University where his research focused on Cell Surface Antigens Present on AKR/J Leukemic Lymphocytes.

Although so much has been accomplished in HIV/AIDS research, far too many adults and children continue to become HIV-infected and die from the effects of the virus, including here in the United States.  The NIH is committed to pressing forward on the vital challenges that remain:  finding new tools for preventing HIV infection (including a vaccine), improved treatments, and, ultimately, a cure.  The OAR plays an important role in coordinating these activities. 

I appreciate Bob’s willingness to assume responsibility for leading the OAR while we conduct a vigorous, national search for a permanent Director to lead this vital office.

Please join me in offering Bob your full support.

Francis S. Collins, M.D., Ph.D.