Dr. Anthony Fauci to step down from his role as NIAID director in December

(ABC News) – Dr. Anthony Fauci will step down from his roles of director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases and chief medical adviser to President Joe Biden this December, he announced on Monday.

"While I am moving on from my current positions, I am not retiring," Fauci said in a statement. "After more than 50 years of government service, I plan to pursue the next phase of my career while I still have so much energy and passion for my field."

Fauci continued, "Over the coming months, I will continue to put my full effort, passion and commitment into my current responsibilities, as well as help prepare the Institute for a leadership transition. NIH is served by some of the most talented scientists in the world, and I have no doubt that I am leaving this work in very capable hands."

Biden said in a statement, "His commitment to the work is unwavering, and he does it with an unparalleled spirit, energy, and scientific integrity."

"As he leaves his position in the U.S. Government, I know the American people and the entire world will continue to benefit from Dr. Fauci’s expertise in whatever he does next," Biden said. "The United States of America is stronger, more resilient, and healthier because of him."

Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra said Fauci’s decision is one "we all knew would eventually come but hoped never would."

"When I arrived at HHS, the world was one year into the COVID-19 pandemic. I quickly came to rely on Dr. Fauci’s wisdom and counsel in our response, and along with his scientific acumen, I treasure his ability to break down complex science in simple terms to the American people to save lives," Becerra said.