Peter Embí, a Vanderbilt University executive in biomedical informatics, has been named the next director of the National Library of Medicine (NLM) at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). This appointment marks the culmination of nearly three decades spent shaping clinical research, data-driven healthcare, and artificial intelligence applications. During his time at Vanderbilt, he held positions as a tenured professor, department chair, and founding director of the ADVANCE AI Center. His official start date is set for September 10, 2026.
His professional background includes expertise in biomedical informatics, computational health science, and the creation of open-source systems for tracking AI performance in medical settings. In a recent address, Embí described plans for a collaborative network of health organizations to improve these tools, demonstrating his commitment to expanding data-driven approaches. The NLM, which operates on an annual budget of $495 million and employs nearly 1,400 staff, will now focus more intensely on AI and data science within biomedical research under his leadership.
The NLM serves as a worldwide center for genomic data, health information technology, and educational programs, working with over 2,000 partner institutions. Its databases and research initiatives make it indispensable for doctors, scientists, and public health agencies. Under Embí, the library will likely prioritize AI integration in healthcare systems, drawing from his experience with algorithm oversight and evidence-based practices.
Throughout his career, Embí has held leadership roles at the Regenstrief Institute, IU Health, and Indiana University School of Medicine. Earlier in his career, he became Ohio State University’s first chief research information officer—a position that highlighted his early contributions to organizing large-scale health data infrastructure. He is also known for developing algorithmovigilance, a method for evaluating AI systems in clinical environments.
As the fifth director of the NLM, Embí will take over a tradition of managing information while addressing the complexities of contemporary healthcare data. His dual experience in academia and executive roles suggests a focus on connecting research, clinical work, and public health systems. The transition will begin with his formal appointment in late 2026.
