Dr. Anthony Fauci, arguably one of the most famous scientists in the world, has indicated he could leave his position within the next few years. In an interview with Politico, the Director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases discussed how he likely would step down from his position by the end of President Joe Biden’s first term.

Social media posts have led users to believe otherwise, with many people thinking the President’s top health adviser was stepping down immediately. Comments ranged from supportive to conspiratorial.

Dr. Fauci was quick to clarify Monday morning. In an interview with CNN’s Kate Bolduan, Dr. Fauci explained what he thinks happened.

“I gave an interview with a reporter and they said, ‘You know, you’re going to have to step down sometime? You can’t be in this job forever.’ I said, ‘You know, you’re absolutely right. I can’t be in this job forever, and I don’t anticipate I’ll be in this job at the end of the first term of President Biden.’” Fauci said. “Which is January 2025. Somehow, that got interpreted that it’s announcing my retirement.”

Dr. Fauci’s career in federal service spans more than five decades. He has worked with seven presidents over that time and was at the forefront in the battle during the AIDS epidemic of the 1980s.

Once COVID-19 came into picture, he was at the center of partisan polarization. Fauci’s staunch defense of COVID lockdown measures and mask-mandates drew the ire of Republican leadership, while also providing fodder for conspiracy theorists.

Dr. Fauci told Politico before he retires, he wants to help end the polarization wracking the country.