National Institutes of Health (NIH) Director Jay Bhattacharya, M.D., Ph.D., today announced the selection of Judy Cho, M.D., as director of NIH's National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI). Dr. Cho joins NIH from the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York City where she served as dean and professor of translational genetics. She is expected to begin her role on August 23, 2026.
"We are entering a new era in which genomic discoveries can increasingly be translated into meaningful advances in prevention, diagnosis, and treatment," said Dr. Bhattacharya. "Dr. Cho brings the scientific vision, collaborative leadership, and translational expertise needed to help realize that promise and advance the institute's mission."
As NHGRI director, Dr. Cho will administer the investment of NHGRI's more than $660 million budget, which supports extensive extramural research that accelerates foundational resources, technology development, and experimental and computational approaches for basic genomics and functional genomics research. Additionally, the institute supports the application of genomics to medical science and clinical care, and the ethical implications of genetic research. NHGRI funds a dynamic intramural research program in genetic and genomic science and technology, as well as clinical research in the genetic causes of disease. Other priorities include the facilitation of education and training opportunities to foster the development of future genetic scientists.
Over nearly 20 years, Dr. Cho spearheaded numerous discoveries of some of the most influential genetic contributors to inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which have paved the way for treatments for Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis that are widely used today. She previously oversaw the BioMe BioBank Program at Mount Sinai, a large database of patient blood samples and medical records that has enabled breakthroughs in personalized medicine. Dr. Cho has also served on the National Advisory Council for Human Genome Research, which provides expert advice on genetics, genomics research, training and programs to NHGRI and NIH. She additionally served on NIH's National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases Board of Scientific Counselors.
Dr. Cho is a board-certified physician, specializing in gastroenterology. She received an M.D. from the Ohio State University College of Medicine, was awarded the Sherman Prize for excellence in IBD research in 2021 and is a member of the National Academy of Medicine.
