The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has appointed George Francis Tidmarsh, M.D., Ph.D., as director of the Center for Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER).

The CDER ensures the safety and effectiveness of over-the-counter and prescription drugs, including biologics and generics, to protect public health in the United States. Its regulatory role also extends to everyday products such as fluoride toothpaste and sunscreens.

Tidmarsh is a medical doctor and holds a Ph.D. in cancer biology from Stanford University, where he also completed a residency in pediatrics and subspecialty training in pediatric oncology and neonatology. He brings to the role of director more than 30 years of experience in biotechnology, clinical medicine, and regulatory science.

“Dr. Tidmarsh is an accomplished physician-scientist and leader whose experience spans the full arc of drug development — from bench to bedside,” FDA Commissioner Marty Makary, M.D., M.P.H., said in a statement. “His appointment to lead CDER brings exceptional scientific, regulatory, and operational expertise to the agency. I look forward to working with him to strengthen our drug review programs, foster innovation, and advance cross-agency initiatives that improve health outcomes for the American public.”

Tidmarsh cofounded Stanford’s Master of Translational Research and Applied Medicine program, which trains students and researchers to turn scientific discoveries into medical solutions. He has also led the development of seven FDA-approved drugs and headed up several biopharmaceutical companies. He has been involved in advancing therapies that address serious unmet medical needs, according to the FDA.

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