NCI Director Sharpless Named Acting Chief of FDA

The Trump administration has named National Cancer Institute (NCI) Director Ned Sharpless to take over the FDA as acting chief in April to replace FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb, who announced his retirement in early March. According to FOX Business, Gottlieb reportedly recommended Sharpless for the role.

“Dr. Sharpless’ deep scientific background and expertise will make him a strong leader for FDA," Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar said in a statement. "There will be no let-up in the agency’s focus, from ongoing efforts on drug approvals and combating the opioid crisis to modernizing food safety and addressing the rapid rise in youth use of e-cigarettes."

According to the FOX article, a letter to the agency from Gottlieb stated, "Dr. Sharpless is a valued colleague to the FDA and is deeply committed to public health. The FDA will continue to secure its consumer protection role and advance policies to promote innovation and safety for families."