Lilly appoints new member of board of directors

Lilly has announced the appointment of Dr William Kaelin Jr to its board of directors, serving on its science and technology committee and finance committee.

Dr Kaelin is a professor in the department of medicine at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, senior physician at Brigham and Women's Hospital and associate director for basic science at the Dana-Farber/Harvard Cancer Center.

His research has focused on areas such as tumour suppressor genes and the normal functions of the proteins they encode, with his studies aiming to create a foundation for the development of new anticancer therapies.

The medical expert will serve under interim election to fill a vacancy left by the retirement of Dr Martin Feldstein until May 2014, when he will stand for full election at the company's annual meeting.

Dr John Lechleiter, Lilly chairman, president and chief executive officer, said: "Bill is a leading cancer researcher and has a clear appreciation of the importance of scientific research and of Lilly's commitment to the discovery and development of innovative medicines that make a difference for patients."

Earlier this month, the company announced the launch of Clinical Trial Resource, a new mobile app that provides clinicians with information on global oncology studies.