Dr. Nancy L. Lewis Appointed as Chief Scientific Officer at NCCN
In a significant move for cancer care and research, the National Comprehensive Cancer Network® (NCCN®) has announced the appointment of Dr. Nancy L. Lewis as their new Chief Scientific Officer (CSO). This prestigious role comes at a critical juncture in cancer research, where advancements in treatment and patient care are more essential than ever.
Dr. Lewis, a distinguished figure in the field of biomedical research, received her medical education from renowned institutions including Penn State University and Temple University School of Medicine. Prior to her appointment, she served as the head of the clinical program at Novartis Pharmaceuticals, bringing with her a wealth of experience from top-tier oncological centers as an esteemed educator and researcher. Her expertise will be pivotal for NCCN's mission to elevate clinical studies and enhance the quality and accessibility of oncology care.
Dr. Crystal S. Denlinger, the CEO of NCCN, expressed her confidence in Dr. Lewis's leadership, stating, "For cancer research, this is a key time; we have many successes on which to build, but there is still a long way to go. Dr. Lewis is the ideal person to lead our efforts to promote innovation and discover new insights that improve the lives of cancer patients."
In her role as CSO, Dr. Lewis will oversee critical programs within the NCCN's Oncology Research Program (ORP) and guide essential aspects of clinical practices as outlined in the NCCN Guidelines®. These guidelines are considered the definitive standards in clinical direction and policy for cancer treatment. With her leadership, NCCN aims to continue advancing evidence-based recommendations for effective cancer therapies and supportive services.
Additionally, Dr. Lewis will supervise important resources such as the NCCN Biomarkers Compendium, the NCCN Radiation Therapy Compendium, and the NCCN criteria for appropriate imaging use. Her involvement extends to furthering the organization's continuing medical education initiatives and relevant global and policy efforts.
"I am thrilled to join the National Comprehensive Cancer Network and contribute to its exceptional legacy in developing high-quality oncology care," said Dr. Lewis. "I look forward to collaborating with the outstanding professionals at NCCN in tackling new challenges and advancing innovative solutions that will improve the lives of patients worldwide."
With this appointment, NCCN demonstrates its commitment to ensuring that the research and clinical initiatives they support continue contributing to the advancements in oncology across the globe. The National Comprehensive Cancer Network is a non-profit alliance of leading cancer centers dedicated to patient care, research, and education, focusing on defining and promoting high-quality, effective, equitable, and accessible cancer care and prevention for all individuals.
NCCN remains steadfast in its objective to provide transparent and evidence-based guidelines that can serve as a benchmark for healthcare professionals and policymakers, reaffirming its position as a leader in the fight against cancer. For more information about NCCN's programs and initiatives, please visit
NCCN.org.