The chief scientific adviser to the Trump administration’s Operation Warp Pace has submitted his resignation on the request of the incoming Biden administration, in accordance with multiple reports.
Dr. Moncef Slaoui will stay in place for one more month to assist with the transition to Biden’s staff, together with his final day being round February 12. On a name with reporters final week, Slaoui mentioned he had been in communication with the Biden staff and was requested to tackle a advisor position when the transition occurs, in accordance to CNN.
Right now, it’s not clear who will take over because the scientific lead for Biden’s staff targeted on COVID-19 vaccines, or if that place will stay. Jeff Zients has been named as Biden’s COVID-19 response coordinator and Bechara Choucair named COVID-19 vaccine coordinator. Each will likely be targeted on rushing up vaccinations.
Slaoui had beforehand mentioned he deliberate on stepping down after two vaccines and two therapies for COVID-19 had reached the market, which occurred in December.
He famous last week that he determined to remain on longer to make sure that the “operation continues to carry out the best way it has carried out by means of the transition of administration,” and acknowledging “we’re getting near the purpose the place my worth add is extra restricted.
Slaoui had initially been criticized when he took the position in early 2020 due to his shut ties to the pharmaceutical business. He had been on the board of Moderna and resigned after taking the position with Operation Warp Pace, and he labored at GlaxoSmithKline for 30 years.
He was reportedly paid simply $1,000 for his work overseeing Operation Warp Pace, in accordance with CNBC, which Slaoui has mentioned he deliberate to donate to scientific analysis.
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