Richard Padzur to depart FDA after recent CDER leadership change

Richard Padzur, the newly appointed leader of the US Food and Drug Administrations (FDA) Center for Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER), has announced his decision to retire after serving less than a month in the position. The news, first reported by STAT, notes that Padzur informed his colleagues on December 2, 2025. While there remains a possibility he could reverse this decision, current expectations are that he will step down by the end of December.

This development follows Padzurs recent appointment to head CDER, a period marked by significant turbulence at the FDA, including leadership changes, staff reductions, delays in drug reviews, and criticisms of political interference from former agency employees.

If Padzur proceeds with retirement, the FDA will face the task of finding a successor to oversee both CDER and the Oncology Center of Excellence, the latter of which Padzur established in 2017.

John F. Crowley, president and CEO of the Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO), expressed concern over Padzurs departure, highlighting the impact of frequent leadership turnover on the agency. Crowley emphasized that organisational stability is critical for the FDA, warning that persistent instability could weaken the United States position in the global biotechnology sector and risk ceding ground to China, which has been increasingly active in major pharmaceutical licensing deals. He stressed the urgency of attracting and retaining scientific talent and capable leadership to maintain the agencys effectiveness.

Padzurs career at the FDA began in 1999, and he has played a key role in streamlining cancer drug approvals and ensuring patients have access to evidence-supported therapies. His appointment as CDER head followed the resignation of George Tidmarsh, who stepped down amid concerns over personal conduct. Tidmarshs exit was part of a broader pattern of high-level departures within the FDA throughout 2025.

Earlier this year, the FDA experienced additional leadership disruptions, including Vinay Prasads temporary departure from the Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research (CBER) and the prior resignation of Peter Marks after disagreements with US Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

Padzurs retirement marks yet another leadership transition during a period of significant upheaval at the FDA, highlighting ongoing challenges in maintaining stability and direction within the agency.

Author: Logan Reeves