FDA Reappoints Vinay Prasad Chief Medical Scientific Officer

Vinay Prasad has been reappointed as the chief medical and scientific officer at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), in addition to continuing his role as director of the Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research (CBER). Prasad, an oncologist known for his critical stance on COVID-19 vaccine and mask mandates, briefly left the FDA amid controversy related to the agency's handling of gene therapy safety concerns but returned less than two weeks later with support from FDA Commissioner Marty Makary and HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. In his expanded role, Prasad will advise FDA leadership on cross-cutting medical and scientific issues, regulatory decisions, and trans-center initiatives, further increasing his influence within the agency. As head of CBER, he oversees regulation of vaccines, gene and cell therapies, and blood products, and has played a significant role in shaping FDA standards for COVID-19 vaccine approvals. His reinstatement reflects strong backing from senior officials despite previous conservative criticism and activist opposition. This leadership consolidation is expected to impact the FDA's approach to biologics and emerging medical therapies.