Collins led the Human Genome Project that, along with a competing private company, mapped the genetic code
- or, as he famously called it, "the book of human life." He was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian award, but may be more widely known for his 2007 best-selling book, "The Language of God: A Scientist Presents Evidence for Belief."
"Dr. Collins is one of our generation's great scientific leaders," Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius said in a statement. "Dr. Collins will be an outstanding leader. Today is an exciting day for NIH and for science in this country."
The NIH is the nation's premiere medical research agency, directing $29.5 billion to spur innovative science intended to lead to better health.
Collins, who was nominated to the post by President Barack Obama in July, was confirmed by voice vote.
NIH is familiar turf: Collins spent 15 years as the NIH's chief of genome research, before stepping down last year to, among other things, work with Obama's campaign. He also helped found the BioLogos Foundation, a Web site formed by a group of scientists who say they want to bridge gaps between science and religion.
