Statement from iBIO President & CEO John Conrad on the Resignation of FDA Commissioner Dr. Marty Makary

Statement from iBIO President & CEO John Conrad on the Resignation of FDA Commissioner Dr. Marty Makary

by John Conrad | May 12, 2026 | Policy News

In response to the news of FDA Commissioner Dr. Marty Makary's resignation, Illinois Biotechnology Innovation Organization (iBIO) President & CEO John Conrad issued the following statement:

"The FDA plays a critical role in advancing medical innovation, protecting public health, and ensuring patients have timely access to safe and effective treatments. Recent staffing reductions, organizational changes, and ongoing leadership turnover have created uncertainty at a pivotal time for the life sciences industry and the patients depending on continued innovation.

What the industry and patients need now is strong, stable, and science-driven leadership that restores confidence in the agency's ability to efficiently review and advance new therapies and technologies. As global competition in biotechnology intensifies, particularly from China, it is essential that the United States maintain a strong and effective FDA that supports innovation while upholding rigorous scientific standards.

America's leadership in biotechnology is directly tied to our public health, economic growth, and national security. Strengthening the FDA and ensuring stability within the agency must remain a national priority so patients continue to benefit from lifesaving medical breakthroughs."