Bangalore: AstraZeneca has appointed Dr Shridhar Narayanan to the position of VP and head, infection science, Bangalore, effective November 2012. In his new role, Dr Narayanan will lead the AstraZeneca team of discovery research scientists, who are based in Bangalore, and focus on research for tuberculosis and neglected tropical diseases.

Dr Narayanan joins AstraZeneca with more than 10 years of drug R&D experience. Most recently, Dr Narayanan was the executive vice president, discovery biology and drug development, Orchid Chemicals and Pharmaceuticals. In this role, he was responsible for the design and implementation of the scientific and business strategy for drug discovery and development across therapeutic areas, managing a team of scientists in biology, safety pharmacology and regulatory toxicology and clinical development.

Dr Manos Perros, head, infection innovative medicines unit, AstraZeneca, said that, "Dr Narayanan and his team represent an important part of AstraZeneca's investment in the search for new medicines to help people who are suffering from infectious diseases. Dr Narayanan's experience in the Indian pharmaceutical industry across various therapeutic areas will complement his strong team of scientists as they work closely with their infection research colleagues in Boston, Massachusetts, as well as external academic leaders and other third party partners."

Dr Narayanan holds a degree in pharmaceutical sciences, a doctorate in pharmacology from Ohio State University, and post-doctoral experience in neuro-pharmacology at the University of California, Los Angeles. Dr Narayanan also held scientific leadership positions at Nicholas Piramal, Glenmark, and Dr. Reddy's Laboratories.