CDER Announces Director of OGD

In an email to Center for Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER) staff from Janet Woodcock, it was announced that Kathleen “Cook” Uhl was selected as the permanent director of the Office of Generic Drugs (OGD), but served as the acting director since March 2013. Cook joined FDA in 1998 as a medical officer in clinical pharmacology review, and was the senior advisor to OGD director, Office of Medical Policy deputy director, and assistant commissioner of women’s health and director of the Office of Women’s Health, Office of the Commissioner.

Cook’s predecessor, Greg Geba, announced in March 2013 that he was leaving, citing major changes within the FDA as part of the reasoning behind his resignation, according to Regulatory Affairs and Professionals Society. After acting as the director for almost two years, and an additional 30 years of experience in regulatory and medical policy, Cook seems the natural choice for the position.

“As many can attest, Cook is a highly-regarded leader who shows enthusiasm for her work, her staff, and our Center’s mission. She has done an extraordinary job as the acting director of OGD, and she brings a valuable mix of knowledge and abilities to further develop and implement standards for the safety and effectiveness of generic drugs. I look forward to my continued work with Cook. Please join me in congratulating her on her permanent appointment,” said Woodcock in the email.