Dr. Neel Belani Joins START New Jersey to Enhance Oncology Research Leadership

START Research Expands Clinical Leadership

The START Center for Cancer Research, recognized as the leading community-based network focused on early-phase oncology trials, recently appointed Dr. Neel Belani as Clinical Investigator at their New Jersey facility. This strategic move aims to bolster clinical research capabilities within one of the country's most densely populated areas, where access to innovative cancer therapies is crucial.

A Vision for Enhanced Oncology Research

Dr. Belani, an accomplished medical oncologist specializing in thoracic oncology and early-phase clinical research, returns to New Jersey, the state where he began his medical training. His appointment underscores START's commitment to expanding access to cutting-edge oncology studies for patients across the region. With an estimated annual increase of about 150,000 new cancer cases in New Jersey, Dr. Belani's expertise is expected to be instrumental in enhancing the clinical trial landscape.

Collaboration and Community Impact

Dr. Belani joins the START team through a collaborative effort with Astera Cancer Care, a prominent oncology practice within the OneOncology network. This collaboration is designed to serve a diverse patient population, estimated at 10 million, and aims to ensure that more patients gain access to early-phase clinical trials. START New Jersey operates with a supportive oncology research team and infrastructure, which promises efficient and effective trial management.

Nick Slack, CEO of START, remarked, "Dr. Belani embodies the future of clinical research leadership, blending deep scientific knowledge with a patient-centered approach. His proven track record in conducting high-quality trials will enhance our ability to provide innovative therapies to patients swiftly."

Dr. Belani’s Background and Expertise

Having completed a hematology and oncology fellowship at Fox Chase Cancer Center and holding an internal medicine residency at Brown University, Dr. Belani is well-equipped to lead clinical initiatives. His experience includes serving as Principal Investigator on various clinical trials and as a contributor on more than 200 Phase 1 studies. Beyond his medical credentials, Dr. Belani also possesses an MBA from Rutgers Business School, providing him with a comprehensive understanding of healthcare systems alongside clinical care.

Upon joining the START team, Dr. Belani expressed his enthusiasm for being part of an organization that is transforming early-phase oncology research delivery. He stated, "It's vital to expand access to clinical trials in community settings so that more patients can benefit from advanced therapies. I look forward to collaborating with this dedicated team to push that mission forward."

The Future of Oncology Trials at START

Dr. Belani will work alongside Dr. Bruno S. Fang, the Director of Clinical Research at START New Jersey, and a multidisciplinary team focused on enhancing the site’s capabilities. Chris Takimoto, CMO of START, emphasized the importance of having robust clinical leadership as the landscape of oncology drug development becomes increasingly complex. He noted that Dr. Belani's commitment to advancing translational research solidifies his position as a key asset to the START team.

With Dr. Belani’s appointment, START continues to establish a strong presence in community-based research while striving to accelerate drug development and broaden patient access to vital clinical trials.

About START

The START Center for Cancer Research is deeply rooted in community oncology globally and serves as a premier access point for specialized preclinical and early-phase clinical trials of innovative anti-cancer agents. START's initiative has led to the completion of over 1,000 early-phase clinical trials, resulting in more than 50 therapies receiving FDA or EMA approval. This commitment to fostering new cancer therapy development resonates with patients, families, and healthcare providers worldwide, providing a platform of hope and opportunity.

To discover more about START and its extensive portfolio of clinical trials, visit STARTresearch.com.