Renowned surgeon-scientist and health policy expert Martin A. Makary, M.D., M.P.H., has officially assumed the role of the 27th Commissioner of Food and Drugs. His confirmation came through a bipartisan Senate vote. Upon taking office, Dr. Makary expressed his intentions to work with the current administration to further the FDA's public health mission.
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. welcomed Dr. Makary, highlighting his qualifications. “He is a national leader in medicine with impeccable credentials. His extensive research, clinical experience, and national leadership make him uniquely qualified to lead the FDA as we work together to Make America Healthy Again."
Dr. Makary has an extensive background in research and clinical practice. He has authored over 300 peer-reviewed articles and founded the Johns Hopkins Center for Surgical Trials and Outcomes Research. His research spans cancer care, obesity, frailty, adverse event monitoring, and more. He co-developed the widely used Surgery Checklist. He is also a member of the National Academy of Medicine and has served as a visiting professor at numerous medical schools worldwide.
In his new role, Dr. Makary spoke about his aspirations, stating, “I am honored and humbled to assume this role at the FDA under the leadership of President Trump and Secretary Kennedy. I look forward to working... to advance our shared goals in meeting the agency’s public health mission. As Commissioner, I hope to ensure that the FDA holds to the gold standard of trusted science, transparency, and common sense so that we can Make America Healthy Again."
Dr. Makary's academic credentials include degrees from Bucknell University, Thomas Jefferson University, and Harvard School of Public Health. His medical training includes a residency at Georgetown University and a fellowship in surgical oncology at Johns Hopkins. At Johns Hopkins, he held an endowed chair in gastrointestinal surgery and was promoted to full professor with tenure, holding joint appointments in both the School of Public Health and the Carey Business School.
