The National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) is backing Dr. Robert Califf, who was nominated in September by President Barack Obama, as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) next commissioner.
“The United States is at a pivotal moment in terms of public health, and the leadership that Dr. Califf will bring to the FDA will be paramount to assuring the safety, effectiveness and security of human drugs, and helping to speed innovations that make medicines more effective, safer and more affordable,” NORD President and CEO Peter Saltonstall said.
The next step in getting Califf into the commissioner's position is for him to be confirmed by the Senate HELP Committee.
Califf has been a vocal supporter of the rare disease community. In 2012, he was a keynote speaker for a NORD meeting. He has been vice chancellor of clinical and translational research at Duke University, leading several landmark studies, and he is a world-renowned expert in cardiovascular medicine, health outcomes research, health care quality and clinical research.
He previously served on the FDA's Cardiorenal Advisory Panel and FDA Science Board’s Subcommittee on Science and Technology.
“Dr. Califf has an insightful understanding of research and a proven record of accomplishment," Saltonstall said. "His experience at the FDA will enable him to assume leadership of the FDA quickly."
