Statement from the Lymphoma Research Foundation on Dr. Richard Pazdur Being Named FDA Center for Drug Evaluation and Research Director

November 13, 2025 —  The Lymphoma Research Foundation applauds the selection of Dr. Richard Pazdur as the Director of the Food and Drug Administration Center for Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER).   We believe Dr. Pazdur will bring evidence-based regulatory review, a dedication to science, and a commitment to patients to this position. 

In recent years, there have been impressive advances in the development of treatments for cancer.  These therapies represent important advances and even cures for many cancer patients, including those with lymphoma and CLL.  Dr. Pazdur and the team at the Oncology Center of Excellence have played a pivotal role in the research and evaluation of these therapies, bringing the promise of these treatments to cancer patients efficiently and effectively. 

Dr. Pazdur and his team have also been open and communicative with all who rely on the Oncology Center of Excellence, including therapy developers, regulated industries, clinicians, and patients.  They have achieved a level of government transparency that we trust will be replicated at CDER.  The health care system, from discovery to care, will benefit from that openness and transparency.