Friends of Cancer Research (Friends) is honored to announce the election of Dr. Richard Pazdur to the organization’s Board of Directors. During his 26 years at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, including as founding director of the Oncology Center of Excellence, Dr. Pazdur built and led the regulatory framework that defines how cancer therapies are developed and approved in the United States. He now brings that experience directly to Friends mission to advance regulatory science and accelerate patient access to innovative treatments.  

“Few people have done more to modernize cancer drug development and bring meaningful therapies to patients than Rick Pazdur,” said Ellen Sigal, Chair and Founder of Friends of Cancer Research. “Rick combines scientific rigor, urgency, and an unwavering focus on patients in a way that has shaped the field for decades. We are honored to welcome him to the board and excited for the perspective and leadership he will bring to Friends.”  

Dr. Pazdur joins Friends Board of Directors as the organization marks its 30th anniversary and continues to modernize cancer drug development and ensure patients benefit from scientific advances as quickly and safely as possible. 

To learn more about Friends Board of Directors click here.