PDI, a global leader in infection prevention product and service solutions, announced the appointment of Michael Yang, Ph.D., as senior vice president of research and development (R&D). Dr. Yang will lead PDI’s growing R&D organization focusing on innovative solutions that address the critical needs of today’s healthcare, food safety, and public health markets as part of the company’s mission to prevent infections, serve its customers and, ultimately, save lives.

“Michael brings a deep orientation to customer-inspired innovation and customer-valued technology solutions,” says Kent Davies, president and chief operating officer, PDI. “As we continue to navigate the challenges of the current pandemic, PDI is even more focused on protecting the health of the customers and communities we serve. We are proud to strengthen PDI’s R&D expertise with Michael’s vast experience leading corporate technology strategy and new product portfolio development as we advance our growth strategy and rapidly respond to meet our customers’ evolving needs.”

Dr. Yang joins PDI after holding progressively responsible R&D leadership roles in leading global companies such as Cardiovascular Systems, Johnson & Johnson, and Abbott Labs / St. Jude Medical. He has also served as a consultant and advisor to several established and emerging medical technology firms expanding their product portfolios and advancing their product development programs and processes. Most recently, Dr. Yang was the vice president, Global Product Development and Program Management Office, Specialty Surgical Division, a $1B+ division of Integra Life Sciences. Dr. Yang received a Bachelor of Science in materials physics and holds a Master of Science in physics and a doctorate in mechanical engineering from Marquette University.

“Joining PDI at this crucial “moment’ for the infection prevention market provides an exciting challenge and a timely opportunity to leverage my extensive product development experience to help further enhance the company’s portfolio and meet growing customer needs,” says Dr. Yang. “PDI’s commitment to customers and progressive approach to product and service innovation reinforce my enthusiasm for joining this unique infection prevention platform as it leads the fight against preventable infections in our communities.”