Singapore: Dr Ling Su, a non-lawyer and a seasoned drug development professional, has joined law firm Sidley Austin as a strategic advisor in its China life sciences practice. Dr Su was recently appointed by DIA as president to its board of directors. He also received the DIA Outstanding Service Award in 2000.

He will draw from his extensive regulatory and industry experience to advise clients on the non-legal aspects of the Chinese regulatory and clinical trial environment as it pertains to product development, clinical trial implementation and other related issues.

Dr Su brings over 20 years' experience across the broad spectrum of drug development processes to his role with Sidley. Having served in multiple senior R&D positions within the industry and as a former regulator in China, he has an in-depth knowledge and understanding of the drug development and clinical trials process, particularly in Asia and the US.

"It is exciting for me to embark on this new challenge with Sidley to develop a multi-faceted advisory service to complement the world-class legal services the firm already provides the life sciences industry," said Dr Su. "I believe it is visionary for Sidley to add a non-lawyer researcher to their roster of professionals who help guide companies through the increasingly complex R&D, government-regulated environment. I have great respect for the lawyers in the China life sciences practice led by partner Chen Yang, and I know we can build an even more dynamic service for our clients."

Prior to joining Sidley, Dr Su served as senior VP and head of development for the Greater China region in Novartis Pharma. He also previously held executive positions with Wyeth Pharmaceutical, Shanghai Roche Pharmaceuticals and Merck. Before his entry into the pharmaceutical industry, Dr Su held several government positions, including serving as a staff officer in China's Ministry of Health Bureau of Drug Policy and Administration, the predecessor of today's State Food and Drug Administration, where he had responsibility for new drug regulation and policy development. He has also served as a visiting scientist at the US FDA's Center for Drug Evaluation and Research.