PCPC Names New Chief Scientist

The Personal Care Products Council announced Halyna Breslawec, PhD, as its new chief scientist, replacing John Bailey, PhD, who retires on July 29. In her new role, Breslawec will oversee the council’s scientific programs, technical committees and publications and will serve as the industry’s scientific liaison for multiple domestic and international organizations.

“Halyna’s scientific credentials and background are impressive, and we are so pleased that she will soon be managing our scientific programs,” said Lezlee Westine, council president and CEO. “She brings a great scientific foundation and proven leadership skills to the council and will be a wonderful asset in her work on behalf of an industry that is committed to product safety, qualit, and innovation.”

Breslawec worked at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for more than 14 years in numerous leadership roles directing the review and approval of medical devices. She also assessed clinical trials, as well as the organization and structure of the Center for Devices and Radiological Health. And while working in the FDA Commissioner’s office, she developed a program to implement FDA's human subject protection regulations for the clinical and academic communities.

Breslawec currently serves as deputy director for the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR), a panel of scientific and medical experts that assesses the safety of cosmetic ingredients used in the U.S. She is responsible for planning and executing CIR activities while serving as liaison between the expert panel and the CIR professional staff.

Before joining CIR, she worked as a consultant as a recognized expert in FDA regulation.  She helped medical device companies develop regulatory policies, evaluated clinical trials and prepared medical device applications for FDA submission.   

She earned a PhD in pharmacognosy (medicinal chemistry) and a BS in biochemistry from the University of Minnesota.

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