# FAQ

**1. Who is Jay Bhattacharya?**
Jay Bhattacharya is a Stanford health economist with an MD and a PhD who has researched human behavior during pandemics.

**2. What did the Santa Clara study suggest about COVID-19 spread?**
The Santa Clara study indicated that the viral spread of COVID-19 was far greater than believed, with many asymptomatic infections.

**3. Why was Jay Bhattacharya’s nomination controversial?**
Bhattacharya’s anti-lockdown views made him a persona non grata in academic circles, leading to controversy over his nomination as the next NIH director by President Trump.

**4. What fresh perspectives does Bhattacharya bring to the NIH as an economist?**
Bhattacharya brings perspectives on trade-offs and uncertainty, prioritizing research based on net health benefits to society and supporting experimentation without strings attached.

**5. What is the importance of diversity in the NIH?**
Diversity in the NIH, particularly intellectual diversity, fosters a rich environment for scientific debates and discussions, enhancing the quality of research and decision-making.

# Conclusion

In conclusion, the controversy surrounding Jay Bhattacharya’s nomination as the next NIH director reflects the complex and polarized nature of discussions during the COVID-19 pandemic. Bhattacharya’s background as an economist brings a fresh perspective to the NIH, focusing on trade-offs and uncertainty in research prioritization. The importance of intellectual diversity within the institution is emphasized as a means to promote rigorous scientific debates and foster innovation. As we navigate the aftermath of the pandemic, it is crucial to continue engaging in constructive dialogue and debate to drive forward scientific progress and healthcare policy.