Steven Quay poised to lead US NIAID, succeeding Anthony Fauci

Pharmaceutical executive Steven Quay, CEO of Atossa Therapeutics and author of books promoting the COVID‑19 lab‑leak theory, is being positioned to become director of the U.S. National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID). The role was held by Dr. Anthony Fauci for nearly four decades until his departure at the end of 2022.

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. reportedly backed Quay’s appointment despite his lack of formal training in infectious diseases. The institute is currently overseen by Acting Director John Powers III, and Quay’s selection is still undergoing final vetting by federal health officials.