Statement on NINDS Leadership Change

ACNP Statement on NINDS Leadership Change

The American College of Neuropsychopharmacology (ACNP) is deeply concerned by the National Institutes of Health’s decision not to renew the contract of Dr. Walter Koroshetz, Director of the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), after nearly two decades of dedicated service.

ACNP is the nation’s leading professional organization dedicated to advancing the science of brain function and behavior and translating discoveries into better prevention and treatment of neuropsychiatric illness. Our members include internationally recognized scientists and clinician-investigators who have helped define the modern understanding of the biological mechanisms underlying mental illness, substance use disorders, neurodevelopmental disorders, and neurodegenerative diseases—conditions that collectively affect tens of millions of Americans and account for enormous human and economic burden.

Dr. Koroshetz has been a steady, trusted, and visionary leader at a time when neuroscience has entered a pivotal era of discovery. Under his leadership, NINDS strengthened the nation’s research infrastructure, supported transformative advances in brain science, and fostered cross-disciplinary partnerships that accelerated progress across neurological and behavioral disorders. This commitment to scientific excellence and collaboration is essential to the broader neuropsychopharmacology research enterprise, where breakthroughs depend on sustained investment, stable leadership, and continuity of strategic direction.

The decision not to renew Dr. Koroshetz’s contract was made without advance notice or a clear transition plan.  This action raises serious concerns about stability and continuity within the federal neuroscience research enterprise. The nation’s ability to confront brain and behavioral disorders depends on maintaining strong leadership that understands the complexity of these conditions and the urgent need for scientific innovation. Abrupt leadership disruption risks undermining years of progress and could slow the translation of discoveries into treatments for patients and families and jeopardize our nation’s health and security.

ACNP urges NIH leadership to reconsider this decision and to take steps to ensure stable, expert, and forward-looking leadership at NINDS. The brain research community relies on NINDS to lead with scientific rigor, transparency, and a commitment to improving outcomes for individuals living with disorders of the brain and behavior.

ACNP remains committed to working with NIH, federal partners, and the broader scientific community to advance research that reduces suffering and accelerates the development of safe, effective treatments for brain and behavioral disorders.