Summary: Michelle Tarver, PhD, MD, has been officially named the director of the FDA’s Center for Devices and Radiological Health (CDRH). With over 15 years of experience in medical device regulation, Tarver brings extensive expertise in public health, clinical research, and policy development.

Key Takeaways:

  • Tarver has held several leadership roles at the FDA, contributing to strategic initiatives and fostering collaboration across the healthcare ecosystem.
  • Her appointment as CDRH director follows her tenure as acting director and a career focused on improving patient engagement and clinical outcomes.

Michelle Tarver, PhD, MD, was officially named the director of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) Center for Devices and Radiological Health (CDRH). Tarver had been the acting director since the announcement of the retirement of the CRDH’s previous director Jeff Shuren in July.

Background in Public Health and Medical Device Regulation

Tarver is a public health executive, board-certified in ophthalmology with a doctorate in epidemiology. She has spent more than 15 years as a medical device regulator, driving strategic initiatives, conducting clinical research, and changing organizational culture, according to the FDA. Tarver has held various leadership positions at the FDA, including Deputy Director of the Office of Strategic Partnerships and Technology Innovation and Program Director of Patient Science and Engagement.

Extensive Experience in Clinical Research and Policy Development

According to the FDA, Tarver has conducted laboratory-based and epidemiological studies, clinical trials, and surveys to capture patient preferences, as well as developed registries and patient-reported outcome measures. She has policy experience in crafting regulations, guidances, and conducting premarket and postmarket reviews. Most recently, Tarver served as the Deputy Center Director for Transformation, leading CDRH’s transformative projects and strategic initiatives.

Notable Contributions as Acting Director

Under her leadership, CDRH has launched efforts to amplify the perspectives of people living with medical conditions, foster collaboration across the healthcare ecosystem, and stimulate creative evidence generation pathways.

Educational and Clinical Background

Tarver earned a BS in Biochemistry from Spelman College in Atlanta and completed the MD/PhD program at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and Bloomberg School of Public Health. As a clinician, she continues to care for people living with inflammatory eye conditions.