Biogen appoints new research and development head

Biogen has recruited Dr Michael Ehlers from Pfizer as its new executive vice-president for research and development.

Dr Ehlers will oversee Biogen's global research, drug discovery, clinical development and medical affairs functions, defining a strategic direction for its research efforts, particularly in terms of its work to develop therapies for patients with few or no treatment options.

At Pfizer, he served as group senior vice-president for biotherapeutics research and development and chief scientific officer of its neuroscience and pain research unit.

Dr George Scangos, chief executive officer of Bristol-Myers Squibb, said: "I am confident that Mike will keep Biogen at the forefront of discovery and enhance our ability to transform our research into treatments that make a meaningful difference in the lives of patients."

It has also been announced that Dr Adam Koppel, Biogen's executive vice-president for strategy and business development, will be leaving the company on June 2nd, returning to his previous employer Bain Capital.

Following his departure, the firm's corporate strategy, business development and mergers and acquisition functions will respectively be led by Dr Scangos, Dr Ehlers and Paul Clancy, Biogen's executive vice-president and chief financial officer.