FDA makes acting CBER and CDER heads permanent, signaling leadership continuity

FDA promoted Michael Davis and Karim Mikhail from acting to permanent heads of the Center for Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER) and the Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research (CBER). The appointments give the divisions stable leadership as the agency awaits a Senate hearing for Heidi Overton, President Trump's nominee for commissioner.

Analysts said the permanent status should reassure investors that the FDA will not undergo major policy changes in the near term. They expect the new commissioner, if confirmed, to delegate key responsibilities to the division directors.

The change follows a period of interim leadership and follows concerns about previous commissioner Marty Makary’s controversial tenure. The agency hopes the continuity will support its regulatory work.