Discovery Laboratories, Inc. announced the appointment of Mark G. Osterman as senior vice president, sales and marketing. He will be the most senior executive responsible for developing, executing and managing Discovery's commercial operations, including the commercial responsibilities of company's strategic partners.

Osterman's initial assignment will be to execute the potential launch of Discovery's lead product, Surfaxin for the prevention of Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS) in premature infants.

"Mark's extensive pharmaceutical sales and marketing experience in the respiratory field is an integral component of Discovery's management team as we begin our transition to a commercial organization," commented Robert J. Capetola, Discovery's president and CEO.

"Most importantly, his leadership and track record of successful product launches are invaluable as we prepare for the launch of Surfaxin. In addition, we have a broad pipeline of Surfactant Replacement Therapies that we plan on advancing to market for the treatment of various respiratory diseases, " he added.

Osterman brings with him over 16 years of industry experience with leading pharmaceutical companies. Recently, he was with Johnson & Johnson as vice president at Johnson & Johnson Development Corporation.

Previously, Osterman was at GlaxoSmithKline, his most senior position being Director, Pulmonary Portfolio - Global Marketing Group where he was involved with the successful launch of several respiratory products including Serevent for the COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) and pediatric indications. Earlier in his career, Osterman was a product manager, respiratory medical liaison and sales representative.