Former FDA Deputy Dr. Namandjé N. Bumpus to Lead Charles River’s New Scientific Advisory Board

Charles River Laboratories has launched a global, cross-functional Scientific Advisory Board to accelerate the adoption of New Approach Methodologies (NAMs), with Dr. Namandjé N. Bumpus as its chair13.

NAMs are advanced non-clinical methods (including in vitro, in silico, and in chemico techniques) aimed at improving safety and efficacy testing and reducing reliance on animal testing in drug development1.

Dr. Bumpus previously served as Principal Deputy Commissioner and Chief Scientist at the FDA, departing in December 2024124.

The new Advisory Board comprises interdisciplinary experts from Charles River to lead commercial and regulatory strategy around NAMs and embed innovative science and technology across its services1.

Charles River continues its commitment to the 3Rs (Replacement, Refinement, and Reduction of animal use) in research and positions itself as a leader in regulatory acceptance of alternative testing methods1.

Dr. Bumpus’s background includes leadership at the FDA, professorship at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, and major roles in national scientific societies and regulatory science12.

Sources:

1. https://investingnews.com/charles-river-announces-scientific-advisory-board-to-drive-alternative-method-innovation-and-adoption/

2. https://avalerehealth.com/news/company-news/avalere-health-welcomes-former-fda-principal-deputy-commissioner-to-advisory-team/

3. https://firstwordpharma.com/story/6322023

4. https://www.raps.org/news-and-articles/news-articles/2024/12/deputy-commissioner-bumpus-announces-departure-fro