Ann A. Hagan, Ph.D., has been named associate director for extramural activities at the National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS), a component of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). In this position, she will oversee the fiscal management of the Institute's $1.9 billion research and research training grant program in the basic biomedical sciences. She will also advise the NIGMS director on the planning, development and administration of Institute grant activities.

In announcing the appointment, NIGMS Director Jeremy M. Berg, Ph.D., said, "Dr. Hagan is an exceptional scientist-manager whose skills, experience and personality make her a perfect fit for this pivotal position. Her talent in managing people and programs will lead NIGMS forward as it continues to support cutting-edge science in new and existing areas."

NIGMS supports basic biomedical research that increases understanding of life processes and lays the foundation for advances in disease diagnosis, treatment and prevention.

Hagan began her career as an assistant professor of biology at George Williams College in Downers Grove, IL. She first came to NIH in 1979 as a staff fellow at the National Institute of Mental Health. In 1981, she returned to academia as an assistant professor of biology at the American University in Washington, D.C. She rejoined NIH in 1987 as a health scientist administrator in the Grants Review Branch of the National Cancer Institute. In 1989, Hagan moved to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, where she rose through the ranks to become chief of the Review Branch. In 2000, Hagan became deputy associate director for extramural activities at NIGMS, serving as acting associate director since November 2003.

Hagan received B.S. and M.S. degrees in biology education and a Ph.D. degree in physiology, all from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Hagan has been active in various NIH committees including the Staff Training in Extramural Programs Committee, serving as its vice-chair in 1994 and its chair in 1995. She currently represents NIGMS on the NIH Roadmap Institutes and Centers Liaisons Committee and the NIH Extramural Programs Management Committee. Hagan has received numerous awards, including an NIH Award of Merit in 1991 and an NIH Director's Award in 1994.

To arrange an interview with Dr. Ann Hagan, contact Susan Athey in the NIGMS Office of Communications and Public Liaison at 301-496-7301.