Lilly hires ex-FDA official as infectious disease head

Lilly hires ex-FDA official as infectious disease head

Eli Lilly has announced the hiring of Dr. Peter Marks, the former director of the FDA's Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, as the company's new head of molecule discovery and infectious diseases. This move comes as a significant addition to Lilly's team, given Marks' extensive experience in the field of biologics and infectious diseases .

Marks, who resigned from the FDA in March 2025 after being forced out by U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., played a pivotal role in the development of COVID-19 vaccines during the Trump administration. His expertise in expediting the development of rare disease treatments and gene therapies is expected to bring significant value to Lilly's portfolio .

The company has stated that Marks' appointment will strengthen their capabilities across various areas, including their existing portfolio and emerging fields. This strategic move follows similar transitions by other senior FDA officials, such as Patrizia Cavazzoni, who joined Pfizer as its chief medical officer earlier this year, and former U.S. FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb, who serves on Pfizer's board .

The hiring of Marks is a strategic move for Lilly, positioning the company to leverage his expertise in biologics and infectious diseases. This appointment is likely to be seen positively by investors, given Marks' track record and the potential benefits it brings to Lilly's research and development efforts.