Obama nominates FDA’s No. 2 official to lead agency

Califf-who has taken a leave of absence from the University due to his FDA duties-is a renowned cardiologist and the founding director of the world’s largest academic research organization, the Duke Clinical Research Institute. The FDA’s chief scientist, Dr. Stephen Ostroff, has served as interim director since then.

Califf-a Duke University researcher, professor and cardiologist-joined the FDA as deputy commissioner for medical products and tobacco in January.

The FDA said Dr. Califf, 63 years old, wasn’t immediately available for interviews.

A decade ago, Califf founded the Duke Translational Medicine Institute, which has provided money to researchers to develop clinical trials of experimental drugs and to work through the regulatory process. “He is one of our nation’s leaders in the growing field of translational research, which is key to ensuring that advances in science translate into medical care”.

As it turns out, the rumor mills-which began churning the moment that Califf was appointed by Hamburg-were correct.

The president’s nomination has to be confirmed by a vote in the Senate, but Califf is thought to be a popular choice and is not expected to face much opposition.

Califf did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Wednesday. He previously served on expert committees that advise the FDA and was considered for the commissioner’s job at least twice before once under President George W Bush and once earlier in the Obama administration.

At the same time, Califf has faced questions about his close ties to the pharmaceutical industry over the years.

“I am confident that these experienced and…”

“We look forward to working with the next Commissioner and the Congress to ensure that the FDA has the resources necessary to protect America’s patients and consumers”.