Rhythm, a biotechnology company, has named Keith M. Gottesdiener, MD, chief executive officer.

Gottesdiener joins Rhythm from Merck, where he served as vice president and late-stage therapeutic group leader, with responsibility for pivotal trials of Merck's products in all therapeutic areas, and previously as head of early-stage clinical development programs.

"Keith's experience and accomplishments developing innovative, best-in-class drugs—including the diabetes blockbuster, Januvia—are exceptional," said Bart Henderson, president and co-founder of Rhythm. "He comes to Rhythm at an ideal time, as we advance clinical development of RM-131 for the treatment of diabetic gastroparesis and RM-493 for obesity and diabetes."