Dr. Francis Collins, a renowned scientist and medical doctor, served as the director of the Human Genome Project in the USA from 2003 to 2008. With a PhD in quantum mechanics, he initially focused on the physics of atoms and subatomic particles before shifting his attention to genetic diseases. His groundbreaking research has led to the identification of genes affected in cystic fibrosis, neurofibromatosis, Huntington's disease, and diabetes.
As a member of the U.S. National Academy of Sciences, Dr. Collins has received numerous accolades, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom and the National Medal of Science. His contributions to the scientific community are vast and esteemed.
Following his nomination by President Obama and unanimous confirmation by the Senate, Dr. Collins became the 16th Director of the U.S. National Institutes of Health on August 17, 2009. His insightful interviews, featured in "Test of Faith," were conducted prior to this esteemed appointment.
Francis Collins' early life was marked by a creative and theatrical upbringing on a farm in Virginia. He began performing on stage at the age of four and was homeschooled until he was ten. It was during his high school years that he discovered his passion for science, thanks to a charismatic chemistry teacher.
Dr. Collins' faith played a significant role in his life, as he became a Christian during his medical studies. His book, "The Language of God: A Scientist Presents Evidence for Belief" (Free Press, 2006),was a New York Times bestseller. Married to Diane Baker, a leader in the genetic counseling community, Dr. Collins is a devoted father of two daughters and grandfather of five.
