Norman Sharpless, MD, director of the National Cancer Institute, will become acting FDA commissioner when Scott Gottlieb, MD, steps down next month, according to The Washington Post.
Dr. Sharpless, an accomplished researcher and oncology physician, was appointed director of the cancer institute in June 2017 and quickly made modernizing research, diversifying clinical trials and improving healthcare access for the underserved key parts of his mission.
Last week, Dr. Gottlieb announced his resignation, citing a desire to spend more time with his family. Dr. Gottlieb had been commuting weekly to Washington, D.C.,from Connecticut.
HHS Secretary Alex Azar announced Dr. Sharpless' appointment March 12 and said the search for a permanent replacement is underway.
When Dr. Sharpless arrives at the FDA, Douglas Lowy, the cancer institute's deputy director, will serve as acting director of the NCI.