Honoring a Champion of Infectious Disease Research Amidst Political and Funding Attacks on Public Health
New York, NY, June 24, 2025 – Treatment Action Group (TAG) is proud to announce that Dr. Jeanne Marrazzo, MD, MPH, FACP, FIDSA, will be honored at the 2025 Research in Action Awards (RIAA) for her groundbreaking contributions to infectious disease research and unwavering commitment to advancing HIV prevention, epidemiology, and global health equity.
Appointed as Director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) in September 2023, Dr. Marrazzo led transformative efforts to address HIV, tuberculosis, emerging infections, and vaccine development. Her innovative research on the vaginal microbiome, HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis, sexually transmitted infection (STI) prevention, and women’s health has reshaped the field, integrating scientific discovery with real-world impact to strengthen public health interventions.
In recent months, the Executive Branch of the U.S. government has implemented sweeping budget cuts that have destabilized public health infrastructure and scientific research, including broad reductions in force at the NIH and other key U.S. health agencies. This removal of key health leaders, including Dr. Marrazzo, who was placed on administrative leave in April 2025. Ongoing budget cuts have disrupted critical HIV prevention trials, stalled vaccine development, and weakened the ability to respond to emerging infectious diseases. TAG remains committed to advocating for sustained funding and ensuring that scientific progress continues despite these challenges.
Despite these challenges, Dr. Marrazzo remains a steadfast advocate for scientific progress and health equity. TAG Board President Ivy Kwan Arce said, “At a time when public health is under attack, Dr. Marrazzo’s leadership is more vital than ever. Her work addresses communities most affected by HIV, TB, HCV, and other infectious diseases, ensuring that science remains a force for justice and survival.”
TAG’s Executive Director Mark Harrington highlights the significance of her contributions to research: “Dr. Marrazzo’s scientific vision has propelled infectious disease research forward in profound ways. Her leadership in advancing HIV prevention strategies, STI science, and vaccine development has strengthened how to protect and treat sexual and reproductive heealth challenges facing women and marginalized communities. TAG stands with her in the fight to protect scientific integrity and public health.”
TAG invites supporters to join in celebrating Dr. Marrazzo’s achievements alongside a powerful lineup of activists, artists, and scientists at the 2025 Research in Action Awards.
Event Details:
October 20, 2025
Angel Orensanz Foundation, New York City
6:00 – 9:00 p.m.
Early Bird Friend Level Tickets are just $200 ($300 after July 15) and sponsorship opportunities are still available.
For more information on the Research in Action Awards, including ticketing and sponsorship details, please visit www.treatmentactiongroup.org/riaa.
The Research in Action Awards is a night of inspiration and impact—honoring those driving scientific breakthroughs and health justice. Be part of this unforgettable evening as TAG recognizes Dr. Jeanne Marrazzo’s extraordinary leadership and mobilize support for TAG’s vital work.
About Treatment Action Group (TAG)
Treatment Action Group (TAG) is an independent, activist-based research and policy think tank dedicated to improving the lives of people affected by HIV, TB, and HCV. TAG fights for better treatment access, health equity, and progressive policy change to ensure groundbreaking research translates into action for the communities most impacted.
Media Inquiries
For press inquiries, photos, video assets, or interview requests, please contact Dorrit Walsh at dorrit.walsh@treatmentactiongroup.org.
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