IDSA selects next CEO

The Infectious Diseases Society of America has selected Jeanne Marrazzo, MD, MPH, FIDSA, as its next chief executive officer, effective Jan. 12, 2026.  

Dr. Marrazzo is an internationally recognized infectious diseases physician, researcher and public health leader who most recently served as the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases at the National Institutes of Health. Her appointment marks a pivotal moment for IDSA as the field continues to face rapidly evolving challenges, emerging pathogens and increasing demands on the nation’s health system infrastructure. 

“Dr. Marrazzo brings exactly the kind of strategic, expert leadership that is needed at this moment to guide the field as we combat infectious diseases with sound science,” said IDSA President Ronald G. Nahass, MD, MHCM, FIDSA. “Her unparalleled experience in infectious diseases — spanning front-line patient care, scientific advancement, public health response and high-level government leadership — positions her to guide us into a new era of strength and impact.” 

“I am energized about leading IDSA at such a critical time,” said Dr. Marrazzo. “Those of us who work to prevent and manage infectious diseases are confronting unprecedented challenges, yet still have extraordinary opportunities to advance health, science and global preparedness. I have always found inspiration and strength in collaborating with others, and now is a critical time to do this. I look forward to working alongside the Board, leadership and staff for the benefit of IDSA members to strengthen our capacity and improve the lives of our patients and communities.” 

A gifted communicator and educator, Dr. Marrazzo has been a prominent voice for the infectious diseases community, frequently providing expert insight into transmission dynamics, public health measures and the sustained strategies needed to prepare for and respond to infectious diseases threats. She is recognized for her work in HIV prevention, sexually transmitted infections, reproductive health and the genital microbiome. She has authored or co-authored hundreds of peer-reviewed publications and continues to champion science-driven public health, health equity and innovation in infectious diseases research. Importantly, Dr. Marrazzo brings a wealth of leadership experience overseeing large and complex organizations. 

Before joining NIAID, Dr. Marrazzo was the C. Glenn Cobbs Endowed Chair in Infectious Diseases and director of the Division of Infectious Diseases at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Under her leadership, UAB expanded its clinical research portfolio, strengthened its HIV and STI treatment programs, and deepened collaborations with global health partners. 
 
Dr. Marrazzo has been actively involved in IDSA leadership. She previously served on the IDSA Board of Directors as treasurer from 2021 to 2023. In addition, she is a Fellow of IDSA, a professional recognition of her contributions to the field of infectious diseases.  

She has also held key leadership positions in other professional societies, including serving as president of the International Society for Sexually Transmitted Diseases Research and chairing the American Board of Internal Medicine Council and Infectious Disease Board. 

Dr. Marrazzo earned her bachelor’s in biology from Harvard University, her MD from Thomas Jefferson University and her MPH in epidemiology from the University of Washington, where she also completed her fellowship in infectious diseases.  

She will succeed Chris Busky, CAE, who announced his resignation earlier this year.   

Dr. Marrazzo was selected after a comprehensive search led by executive search firm Korn Ferry and an IDSA Transition Task Force of current and former IDSA leaders. 

About IDSA  
The Infectious Diseases Society of America is a global community of 13,000 clinicians, scientists and public health experts working together to solve humanity’s smallest and greatest challenges, from tiny microbes to global outbreaks. Rooted in science, committed to health equity and driven by curiosity, our compassionate and knowledgeable members safeguard the health of individuals, our communities and the world by advancing the treatment and prevention of infectious diseases. Visit idsociety.org to learn more.