Dr. Nancy L. Lewis Appointed Chief Scientific Officer at NCCN
The National Comprehensive Cancer Network® (NCCN®) has announced the appointment of Dr. Nancy L. Lewis as its new Chief Scientific Officer. Dr. Lewis brings extensive experience in biomedical research, specializing in clinical studies related to solid tumors and hematologic cancers. Previously, she served as a Senior Clinical Program Leader at Novartis Pharmaceuticals and has an impressive academic background with degrees from Penn State University, Temple University School of Medicine, and Rutgers University. She also completed her residency at the University of Rochester and a fellowship at Fox Chase Cancer Center, one of the founding member institutions of NCCN.
Dr. Crystal S. Denlinger, the current CEO of NCCN, expressed her excitement about Dr. Lewis’s capabilities to supervise critical innovations in cancer research. Dr. Denlinger stated, “We are at a pivotal moment in cancer research. While we have had numerous successes, there remains much to accomplish. Dr. Lewis is perfectly suited to lead our efforts in fostering innovations and scientific discoveries that enhance the quality of life for cancer patients.” Dr. Lewis’s extensive recognition from top oncology organizations, such as the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR), American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), and American Cancer Society (ACS), underscores her remarkable commitment to the field.
In her role as Chief Scientific Officer, Dr. Lewis will be responsible for advancing NCCN’s Oncology Research Program and supporting the development of clinical practice guidelines in oncology as well as NCCN Guidelines for Patients®. Additionally, she will oversee the creation of NCCN Biomarkers Compendium® and NCCN Radiation Therapy Compendium™, ensuring that clinical practices remain current and evidence-based.
Dr. Lewis expressed her enthusiasm about joining NCCN, stating, “I am thrilled to be joining the National Comprehensive Cancer Network team. This position allows me to contribute to NCCN’s exceptional mission of improving the quality of cancer care.” She looks forward to collaborating with esteemed experts to face new challenges and implement innovative solutions that improve patient outcomes internationally.
Starting in May 2026, Dr. Lewis will take the helm from Dr. Denlinger, who has transitioned to CEO. The NCCN is a nonprofit organization that unites the foremost cancer centers dedicated to patient care, research, and education about cancer. It aims to set high standards of quality, effectiveness, equity, and accessibility in cancer care to ultimately enhance the lives of all patients.
NCCN clinical practice guidelines have become the gold standard for treatment and prevention strategies backed by expert consensus and clear evidence. The organization’s patient guidelines provide vital, expert-developed information regarding cancer care, giving patients and caregivers access to critical support resources. Through the NCCN Foundation®, various publications arise to support continuous education initiatives, global outreach, and collaborative research.
For more detailed information about NCCN and its initiatives, you can visit their official website at NCCN.org.