Suspension of NIDCR Director Raises Questions and Controversy

Rena D’Souza, DDS, MS, PhD, a highly regarded dental researcher and the first woman of color to lead the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR), has been on paid administrative leave since April while the National Institutes of Health (NIH) investigates allegations of misconduct by subordinates. According to Science, the circumstances around her suspension have raised significant attention within both dental and broader scientific communities. D’Souza, who filed a lawsuit last year against the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), claims the disciplinary actions are discriminatory.

D’Souza’s suspension follows two previous disciplinary actions by the NIH — one in December 2022 and another in August 2023. These incidents, she asserts in her lawsuit, are part of a pattern of “severe disciplinary actions” intended to either remove her from her role or encourage her resignation. According to Science, the lawsuit claims that Lawrence Tabak, DDS, PhD, principal deputy director of the NIH, expressed discriminatory animus during a meeting in August 2023 by criticizing D’Souza’s comments about the treatment of Chinese researchers at NIH, allegedly yelling and banging his fist on the table.

The reasons behind D’Souza’s latest administrative leave remain unclear. According to D’Souza’s written statement to Science, she was placed on leave without specific details, with Jennifer Webster-Cyriaque, DDS, PhD, assuming her responsibilities. NIH has not provided a detailed public comment, citing its policy against discussing personnel matters. HHS similarly declined to comment on the pending litigation.

D’Souza’s lawsuit contends that the allegations against her are based on unfounded reports of inappropriate comments and actions, which she argues were taken out of context. The lawsuit also highlights a comparison with the case of another NIH senior employee, whom she claims faced fewer consequences for more severe misconduct. In defense of D’Souza, one of her former post-doctoral fellows described her as a compassionate and supportive leader. However, some former NIDCR staff members reportedly left due to dissatisfaction with her leadership, though confidentiality agreements prevent further disclosure.

As the legal and administrative processes continue, the situation underscores broader conversations about leadership accountability, workplace culture, and diversity within government institutions. NIH is required to keep Congress informed on the status of D’Souza’s administrative leave, ensuring that her suspension cannot be prolonged indefinitely without oversight. Click here to read more.