FDA’s David McMullen Joins Neuralink As Head Of Medical Affairs

Neuralink has hired David McMullen, a senior U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) official who previously oversaw the agency’s Office of Neurological and Physical Medicine Devices.

McMullen’s division was responsible for the lifecycle review of brain implant devices, including those developed by Neuralink and its competitors. His move from regulator to company executive raises questions about the revolving door between government agencies and private firms. At Neuralink, McMullen will lead medical affairs, focusing on advancing brain-computer interface (BCI) technology. He previously worked at a neuroscience lab at Duke University alongside researchers who now hold senior roles at Neuralink.