Neurocrine Biosciences Inc (NASDAQ: NBIX), a biotechnology company focused on neurological and endocrine related disorders, announced yesterday that it has named Eiry W Roberts, MD as its new chief medical officer, effective 8 January 2018, to replace Christopher O'Brien, MD who is retiring from the role.

Dr Roberts has more than 25 years of research and development experience in the pharmaceutical industry across all phases of drug development from research through commercialisation in multiple therapeutic areas, including neuroscience, inflammation, oncology and metabolic diseases. She joins Neurocrine from Eli Lilly and Company where she held various positions during her tenure, including vice president, Clinical Pharmacology and vice president of R&D, BioMedicines Business Unit. She was the chair of the Medical Review Committee. She was also a member of Lilly's Corporate Portfolio Management Committee and Lilly Ventures Steering Committee. Dr Roberts also has extensive leadership and business development experience, including the management of strategic alliances, business partnerships and venture capital collaborations.

Kevin Gorman, PhD, chief executive officer of Neurocrine Biosciences, said, 'We are very pleased to welcome Eiry to Neurocrine as she brings extensive senior leadership and pharmaceutical management experience to the team. Eiry's strong background in implementing strategic clinical development programs and navigating the regulatory approvals process across phases of drug development from research to commercialisation in multiple therapeutic areas, including neuroscience, will be valuable as we execute on our commercialisation and clinical plans and advance our pipeline in support of our commitment to relieve patient suffering and enhance lives.'