Dr. Anirban Maitra Appointed as New Director of Perlmutter Cancer Center

NYU Langone Health Welcomes Dr. Anirban Maitra as Director of Perlmutter Cancer Center

In a significant move to enhance its cancer research and treatment capabilities, NYU Langone Health has announced the appointment of Dr. Anirban Maitra, an esteemed physician-scientist known for his impactful work in pancreatic cancer research, as the new director of the Perlmutter Cancer Center. This center, recognized as a Comprehensive Cancer Center by the National Cancer Institute (NCI), continuously strives to provide cutting-edge approaches to the prevention, detection, and treatment of cancer.

Before his new role, Dr. Maitra served as the inaugural scientific director at the Pancreatic Cancer Research Center at MD Anderson Cancer Center. His contributions have been pivotal in the realms of early detection and biomarker development, essential elements for formulating effective cancer therapies. At NYU Langone, Dr. Maitra initially co-directed the Gastrointestinal (GI) Cancer Center, which is dedicated to leveraging the expertise of GI cancer specialists to offer unparalleled patient care.

Alec C. Kimmelman, MD, PhD, Dean and CEO of NYU Langone Health, expressed confidence in Dr. Maitra's leadership abilities. "Dr. Maitra's outstanding track record in oncology, complemented by his experience in directing integrated, multidisciplinary teams, makes him an exceptional fit for leading the Perlmutter Cancer Center. His profound commitment to advancing cancer research, coupled with his vision, will significantly contribute to the center's goals and to the families that rely on our services."

Dr. Maitra's appointment follows a national search initiated shortly after Dr. Kimmelman's ascension as Dean and CEO in March 2025. Under Dr. Kimmelman's leadership, the Perlmutter Cancer Center established the Center for Molecular Oncology in October 2024. This initiative is already transforming cancer care, ensuring that each patient receives liquid biopsies for tumor DNA sequencing, a practice that is crucial for tailoring personalized treatment plans. Dr. Maitra, who has collaborated closely with this center, will carry forward these significant initiatives in his new capacity.

"I’m both humbled and thrilled to take on this important leadership role at the Perlmutter Cancer Center," stated Dr. Maitra. "Since joining NYU Langone, I’ve had the privilege of working alongside some of the most esteemed physicians, researchers, and healthcare professionals dedicated to our patients' wellbeing. The integrated approach of this institution allows us to enhance our understanding and rapidly develop innovative therapies for cancer."

The Perlmutter Cancer Center, with its prestigious designation as a Comprehensive Cancer Center, stands as a beacon of hope for those battling cancer in New York City and beyond. It not only provides state-of-the-art care but also conducts extensive research aimed at revolutionizing cancer treatment.

Dr. Maitra earned his medical degree from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences in New Delhi. Following this, he completed his residency in anatomic pathology, followed by clinical and research fellowships in pediatric pathology and molecular pathology at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. He further specialized in gastrointestinal pathology at Johns Hopkins University. His illustrious career includes significant contributions at the Sol Goldman Pancreatic Cancer Research Center where he served as a physician-scientist before his role at MD Anderson. His marked achievements include an academic professorship at Johns Hopkins University and holding various prestigious awards, showcasing his dedication to oncology.

As a prolific researcher, Dr. Maitra has co-authored over 500 peer-reviewed studies and presented at renowned conferences worldwide. His efforts have notably focused on groundbreaking initiatives, including those concerning KRAS-targeted therapies and early cancer interception.

NYU Langone Health is recognized for its exceptional patient outcomes, consistently ranked as one of the best academic medical centers across the nation. With its comprehensive range of medical services, including multiple outpatient facilities, it remains a leader in advancing healthcare. The future with Dr. Maitra at the helm of the Perlmutter Cancer Center is poised for innovative cancer care and research advancements, benefiting countless patients and families in need of support and care.

In conclusion, Dr. Anirban Maitra’s leadership symbolizes a promising chapter in the ongoing fight against cancer, as NYU Langone Health continues its commitment to excellence in research and patient care.