CytRx, a biopharmaceutical R&D company specializing in oncology, has appointed Anita J. Chawla, Ph.D., to its board of directors. Chawla brings over 25 years of experience as an economist in the health care industry to CytRx, with a proven track record helping pharmaceutical, biotechnology, medical device and diagnostic companies achieve their product development and commercialization objectives.

Previously, she has provided strategic consultancy services to a variety of life science companies, including CytRx. With broad experience advising companies in matters including corporate and business unit strategy, market dynamics across multiple therapeutic areas, reimbursement, health economics and business analytics, her appointment strengthens the executive leadership team and adds significant operational and commercial expertise.

"CytRx's aldoxorubicin is a novel, targeted therapeutic that has shown promise in various oncology clinical trials and has significant potential in several cancer types," said Chawla. "I look forward to working alongside the board and management team to help CytRx navigate the clinical and commercial development of its lead asset and create long term value for shareholders."

Chawla currently is managing principal at Analysis Group, a consultancy firm that provides economic, financial and business strategy consulting to corporations, law firms and government agencies. Clients include major pharmaceutical manufacturers, biotech and medical device companies, including smaller, innovative companies. Prior to joining Analysis Group, she held positions at Genentech as the head of the Health Economics & Outcomes Research department where she also supported the oncology franchise, The MEDSTAT Group (now Truven Health Analytics) and the American Medical Association (Center for Health Policy Research).