EPIX taps Gamzu as permanent CEO

EPIX Pharmaceuticals Inc., a Lexington biotechnology company, said its board of directors has appointed Elkan Gamzu, 66, as president and chief executive officer and as a member of the board, effective immediately.

Gamzu had served in the role of interim chief executive officer since July 2008 when according to an AP story, the company disclosed that Michael G. Kauffman, its previous chief executive, was resigning to pursue other interests.

In a statement today, EPIX board chairman Frederick Frank said, "After a comprehensive review of Elkan's performance over the past seven months, the board concluded that Elkan is the right candidate to continue to lead EPIX as the company focuses on executing its core clinical and business development strategies."

To read the company's press release, please click here.
(By Chris Reidy, Globe staff)