Dr. Walter Koroshetz, director of the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) within the NIH, is leaving his post after his application for reappointment was unexpectedly denied.[Koroshetz's departure means that 13 of NIH's 27 divisions will be led by an interim director.Koroshetz has served as head of NINDS since 2015 and previously as deputy director since 2007, he said in an email sent to staff on Friday evening.[1] His departure means that 13 of NIH's 27 divisions will be led by an interim director.Koroshetz has served as head of NINDS since 2015 and before that as deputy director since 2007.3][4] The American Academy of Neurology (AAN) has expressed concern about NIH's abrupt decision to terminate Koroshetz's contract without consulting with stakeholders and without a clear succession plan.[Koroshetz was a highly respected leader who led several NIH initiatives, such as the BRAIN Initiative and programs against addiction and chronic pain.2][3] The NIH funds research on the brain and central nervous system, which has led to advances in the treatment of neurological diseases.