FDA Appoints George Tidmarsh Acting CBER Director After Vinay Prasad Exit

Dr. George Tidmarsh, recently appointed as head of the FDA's Center for Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER), has been named acting director of the agency's Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research (CBER) following the sudden resignation of Vinay Prasad. Prasad stepped down after less than three months amid conservative criticism over his handling of gene therapy approvals, notably the regulatory controversies involving Sarepta Therapeutics' Duchenne muscular dystrophy gene therapy Elevidys. The FDA Commissioner Marty Makary praised Prasad's contributions but confirmed Tidmarsh's temporary dual role while a search for a permanent CBER director continues. Tidmarsh brings over 30 years of experience in biotech and regulatory science, marking his first federal position with his recent CDER appointment. Deputy directors Scott Steele and Brittany Goldberg will continue their roles within CBER's leadership team. The FDA has not provided further comment on plans for finding a permanent replacement for Prasad.