Who is Vinay Prasad? US FDA vaccine chief to step down next month

Dr. Vinay Prasad, who has been serving as the chief of the vaccine division at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), is set to resign next month. Prasad, a former epidemiology professor at the University of California, San Francisco, took over the position in May 2025, succeeding Peter Marks. During his tenure, he played a pivotal role in guiding the FDA's vaccine policies, especially amid the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. His departure marks a significant transition for the agency as it continues to navigate the complexities of vaccine approval and public health strategies. Prasad's expertise and leadership were crucial in shaping the FDA's response to pandemic-related issues, and his exit raises questions about the future direction of the vaccine division. The FDA is expected to announce an interim successor while outlining its priorities in vaccine development and public health communication in the wake of his departure.