Janet Woodcock on Tuesday was appointed director of the FDA'sCenter for Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER), which reviews newdrugs for safety and efficacy and ensures that quality and safety aremaintained after marketing.Woodcock, an internist and rheumatologist, has directed the Office ofTherapeutics Research and Review of FDA's Center for BiologicsEvaluation and Research (CBER) since November 1992. In thatcapacity she oversaw approval of the first biotechnology-basedtreatments for multiple sclerosis and cystic fibrosis. Before that sheserved as acting deputy director of CBER.Woodcock was with CBER's Division of Biological InvestigationalNew Drugs from 1986 to 1990, and served as group leader for vaccinesand allergenics, as deputy director and as director of the division.FDA Commissioner David Kessler, who announced the appointment,said, "Dr. Woodcock's outstanding scientific credentials andmanagement record make her uniquely qualified for this critical seniorjob. She brings a clinical perspective in addition to outstandingpersonal skills."At the FDA, Woodcock earned three Awards of Merit, twoCommendable Service Awards and a Commissioner's Special Citation.

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