In a wave of unexpected departures, several top-ranking officials at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) have resigned recently. Larry Tabak, the longtime principal deputy director who played a crucial role in leading the agency during the COVID pandemic, has left abruptly. His departure has raised concerns among colleagues, particularly following reports of deep cuts mandated by the Trump administration. This trend continues with another high-ranking NIH official overseeing research grants who has also announced their retirement. These resignations come at a time of uncertainty within the agency, generating discussions about the future direction of NIH and the impact of political pressures on its leadership.