BRIEF—US FDA appoints new principal deputy commissioner

The US Food and Drug Administration has appointed Amy Abernethy as principal deputy commissioner, replacing Rachel Sherman, who is retiring.

Dr Abernethy, who is known for her work in the development of real-world evidence, will oversee clinical, scientific, regulatory, and other functions at the agency.

She will leave her role as chief medical officer and chief scientific officer at Flatiron Health when she takes up the position in February 2019.