April 30, 2020
Ronald Chen, MD, MPH, Brandmeyer Chair and Professor of Radiation Oncology, has been named the new principal investigator for NRG Oncology clinical trials efforts at The University of Kansas Cancer Center. He takes the place of Joshua Mammen, MD, PhD, FACS, division chief of Surgical Oncology, who served in the position for several years. NRG Oncology convenes the complementary research areas of the National Surgical Adjuvant Breast and Bowel Project (NSABP), the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG) and the Gynecologic Oncology Group (GOG). As a member of NRG Oncology, the cancer center is able to expand its clinical trial offerings to patients.
"I am honored to have participated in the cancer center’s involvement in NRG Oncology for the last several years. The cancer center is a main voting member of NRG Oncology, and Dr. Chen's expertise and experience allows us to bring even more ‘Kansas solutions’ to the rest of the country by growing our partnership with NRG Oncology," Dr. Mammen said.
Dr. Mammen added that NRG Oncology has brought important trials to Kansas City, particularly for head and neck cancers, gynecologic cancers, breast cancer, prostate cancer and colon cancer.
“Our alliance with NRG Oncology is one of the ways we provide leading-edge clinical trials to our patients, and we are so appreciative of Dr. Mammen leading the way on this vital effort. Dr. Chen’s extensive experience with NRG will pay great dividends for our clinicians and patients,” said Roy Jensen, MD, director of the cancer center.
“As a National Cancer Institute-designated cancer center, we are able to offer a wide range of clinical trials to our patients. Many of our physicians and researchers work with national groups, such as NRG Oncology, to design and lead these cutting-edge clinical trials,” Dr. Chen said. “I am honored to take on this role and continue our partnership with the NRG to help advance the care and improve outcomes for patients with different cancers.”