Former FDA deputy director joins Rib-X Pharmaceuticals

Dr Matthew Wikler, a former deputy director of the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), has been appointed chief development officer of US biopharma Rib-X Pharmaceuticals.

Dr Wikler, who takes over the role from April 30, will lead strategic development of the company's product candidates, which include delafloxacin for skin and skin structure infections.

Rib-X will benefit from Dr Wikler's years of experience in infectious diseases, including two years at the FDA where he served as deputy director, division of anti-infective drug products.

His most recent role was as president and CEO of IASO Pharma, a clinical stage biotechnology company focused on the development of antibacterial and antifungal therapeutics.

Other previous positions include senior roles at Bristol-Myers Squibb, Ortho-McNeil Pharmaceutical, the Institute for One World Health, Mpex Pharmaceuticals, Peninsula Pharmaceuticals and ViroPharma.

According to Rib-X, Dr Wikler has played a major role in the clinical development and subsequent approval of 19 antimicrobial drugs and vaccines.

“With numerous drug approvals and successful product launches under his belt and extensive experience in antibiotic drug development at both small and large companies, Dr Wikler is an excellent complement to an already exceptional team here at Rib-X,” said Mark Leuchtenberger, president and CEO of Rib-X Pharmaceuticals.