AACR Expresses Sincere Appreciation to “FDA Legend” Janet Woodcock, MD

PHILADELPHIA – The American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) expresses its gratitude to Janet Woodcock, MD, for her stellar service to the American people during her nearly four decades at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), from which she retired this week. Her leadership and steadfast commitment to a rigorous drug review process have greatly contributed to establishing the United States’ global reputation for excellence and diligence in the review and assessment of lifesaving products.

“Throughout her distinguished career, Dr. Woodcock has led numerous efforts to advance her inspiring vision for a future of personalized cancer medicine, while also leading the charge to develop the science to address FDA’s regulatory needs,” said AACR President Philip D. Greenberg, MD, FAACR. “She is a renowned public servant and a distinguished national leader on drug safety and quality issues, and is admired and revered by the broader research, clinical care, and patient advocacy communities.”

Woodcock most recently served as Principal Deputy FDA Commissioner. She previously served as Acting Commissioner from January 2021 until February 2022 and was the longtime Director of the Center for Drug Evaluation and Research. As therapeutics lead for “Operation Warp Speed” beginning in early 2020, she supported the development, evaluation, and availability of treatments such as monoclonal antibodies and antiviral drugs for patients with COVID-19.

“During her tenure at the FDA, Dr. Woodcock has been dedicated to driving change in drug development that results in more efficient and accessible clinical trials, more effective and safer medical products, and better outcomes for patients, including patients with cancer,” said Margaret Foti, PhD, MD (hc), chief executive officer of the AACR. “The entire medical research and clinical care community is fortunate to have had Dr. Woodcock in the leadership ranks of the U.S. agency that is charged with advancing public health through expediting the approval of safe and effective therapies for patients.”