Renuka Iyer, MD, Appointed as Chief Medical Officer of NCCN

Dr. Renuka Iyer Appointed as CMO of NCCN

The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) has announced the appointment of Dr. Renuka Iyer as its new Chief Medical Officer (CMO), effective February 26, 2026. Dr. Iyer, a renowned oncologist from Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, brings a wealth of experience and a track record of innovation in oncology to this prestigious role.

A Leader in Oncology

Dr. Iyer has an impressive background in cancer care, having served in critical positions at Roswell Park, part of the NCCN community. As a professor of oncology, she leads the gastrointestinal oncology section and oversees faculty affairs in the medical department. Her dedication to advancing oncology is evident, as she also holds the title of Medical Director of Medical Oncology at the Roswell Park Care Network. Furthermore, she teaches at the Jacobs School of Medicine at the University of Buffalo.

Her educational journey began at Grant Medical College in Mumbai, followed by her medical oncology fellowship at Roswell Park. She completed her residency at Weill Cornell Medical College and holds board certifications in internal medicine and oncology. Dr. Iyer is also a member of several professional societies and has received multiple accolades from organizations such as the North American Neuroendocrine Tumor Society and the American Cancer Society. With hundreds of peer-reviewed articles, abstracts, and book chapters to her name, her research focuses on innovative treatments for rare cancers, immunotherapy, biomarkers, and quality of life.

Vision and Commitment

Crystal S. Denlinger, MD, the CEO of NCCN, noted Dr. Iyer's exemplary dedication to advancing oncology research and improving patient care. She stated, “Renuka is the right person to take on a significant role that influences treatment and outcomes for cancer patients globally. Her career is marked by a commitment to innovation and translating research into practice.”

Since 2023, Dr. Iyer has been a key member of the NCCN Guidelines Steering Committee, where she has overseen the Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology. This position has allowed her to strategically guide the allocation of experts to panels and advise NCCN on future directions, drawing from her experience on various NCCN Guidelines Panels.

As CMO, Dr. Iyer will play a critical role in the NCCN Guidelines Program, comprising 90 guidelines covering nearly every type of cancer, as well as screening, prevention, and supportive care. These guidelines are updated at least annually and often more frequently, ensuring they reflect the latest evidence-based practices. They are accessible in various formats, including the interactive NCCN Guidelines Navigator™.

Dr. Iyer’s role will also involve clinical leadership of the NCCN Guidelines’ program, management of resources aligned with the guidelines, oversight of NCCN Continuing Education (CE), and contribution to the global and policy initiatives within the organization.

A Call to Action

Upon her appointment, Dr. Iyer expressed her honor and excitement to serve in this distinguished position. She said, “I am thrilled to join NCCN during a time filled with updates and opportunities for innovations in patient care. After two decades in academic oncology, I look forward to fostering high-quality cancer care and building bridges to fulfill NCCN's mission.”

The NCCN, which celebrates its 30th anniversary as a non-profit alliance of leading cancer centers, is dedicated to defining and advancing high-quality, effective, equitable, and accessible cancer care and prevention. The NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines provide transparent, evidence-based recommendations for cancer treatment, making them the recognized standard in clinical direction and policy in oncology.

With her extensive experience and strong commitment to the field, Dr. Iyer’s leadership is expected to significantly impact the future of cancer care through NCCN. As she begins her new journey, many look forward to her contributions towards improving the treatment landscape for cancer patients worldwide.