Dr. Michael D. Ruff, vice president of pharmaceutical development atMetrics Inc., has received his clinical doctor of pharmacy degree from the Shenandoah University Bernard J. Dunn College of Pharmacy. Ruff completed his Pharm.D. degree shortly after becoming the ninth person in the world to earn the new Certified Pharmaceutical Industry Professional (CPIP™) credential.The CPIP™ credential – awarded by the International Society for Pharmaceutical Engineering’s Professional Certification Commission – is the first competency-based international certification for pharmaceutical professionals. It holds those who qualify to a global competency standard through demonstrated education, experience and rigorous examination.Ruff, who recently was promoted to vice president of pharmaceutical development, has been with Metrics for 11 years, where his responsibilities have included providing formulation development, clinical trial material manufacture and consultation services to Metrics’ clients. “In his many years here at Metrics, Mike has consistently demonstrated a personal commitment to excellence, including his pursuit of continuing education that allows him to remain at the forefront of industry knowledge and technology,” said Phil Hodges, president. “We congratulate Mike on earning his doctorate.”A member of ISPE since 2005, Ruff also holds bachelor of science degrees in zoology and pharmacy from the University of Texas at Austin.Ruff is a registered pharmacist with 20-plus years’ experience in developing new chemical entities with a focus on oncology, central nervous system and anti-viral drugs. He holds several U.S. patents for pharmaceutical applications and has authored numerous technical papers that have been presented at national and international conferences, including ISPE. He also is a member of the American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists.