FDA Head Confirmed

The US Senate approves the Obama administration’s nominee, Robert Califf, as the next commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration.

Written byTracy Vence
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DUKE UNIVERSITY

Cardiologist Robert Califf was today (February 24) confirmed as the next commissioner of the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). A US Senate vote (89-4) ended a months-long political debate related to Califf’s nomination by the Obama administration in September 2015. Stephen Ostroff has served as interim FDA commissioner since Margaret Hamburg resigned her post as the agency’s chief early last year.

“Dr. Califf is a seasoned, smart and energetic leader who will meet the challenges of a rapidly evolving research ecosystem,” Research!America President and CEO Mary Woolley said in a statement.

“Dr. Califf’s considerable expertise and long experience in clinical and translational medicine makes him well-suited to lead the FDA’s efforts to assure the safety and effectiveness of treatments and medical devices to ensure ...

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