Belay Diagnostics Welcomes Seema Nagpal, MD, as First Chief Medical Officer

Introducing Seema Nagpal, MD: Pioneering Leadership at Belay Diagnostics

Belay Diagnostics, a leading molecular diagnostics company, has officially announced the appointment of Dr. Seema Nagpal, a distinguished neuro-oncologist from Stanford University, as its inaugural chief medical officer (CMO). This strategic hiring, effective November 19, 2026, marks a significant step for the company as it intensifies its focus on developing innovative diagnostic tools for central nervous system (CNS) cancers, particularly through the utilization of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) liquid biopsy testing.

Dr. Nagpal boasts an extensive background in treating patients with various CNS malignancies, including primary brain tumors and leptomeningeal disease. Over the years, she has not only worked closely with patients but also spearheaded clinical trials that explore groundbreaking avenues in CNS cancer treatment. Her dedication to advancing patient care through innovative research aligns perfectly with Belay’s mission to provide extensive molecular insights into cancer management.

In her new role, Dr. Nagpal is expected to leverage her expansive clinical expertise to shape the company’s clinical strategies and drive research initiatives aimed at integrating CSF liquid biopsies into routine oncology practice. According to Brian Coe, co-founder and CEO of Belay Diagnostics, her experience in navigating the challenges faced by clinicians enhances the company’s capability to support healthcare providers and improve patient outcomes.

“This is a transformative moment for our company,” Coe remarked. “Dr. Nagpal’s unique perspective will enable us to refine our approaches and fulfill our commitment to serving patients and the healthcare professionals who care for them.”

Dr. Nagpal will not only guide the clinical strategies but will also focus on enhancing physician engagement, driving research publications, and even leading the development of an interactive molecular case review platform. This platform aims to foster collaboration among clinicians who use Belay’s tests, allowing them to discuss complex cases with experts in real time, making the process more efficient and informed.

Advocating for the adoption of liquid biopsy techniques in neuro-oncology has been a passion for Dr. Nagpal. She emphasizes the importance of making advanced diagnostic options accessible to all patients, not just those residing near academic centers. “I’ve seen firsthand how identifying a target for treatment can drastically change a patient’s life,” she stated. “This information should be available to every patient and their physician, regardless of their location.”

Belay Diagnostics is known for its innovative approach to molecular diagnostics, having developed three proprietary CSF liquid biopsy tests: Belay Summit™ 2.0, Belay Ascent™, and Belay Vantage™. These tests are designed to provide essential insights into CNS malignancies from a standard lumbar puncture, with the results delivered in a turnaround time of just 6-8 days, eliminating the need for tissue samples.

With a strong foundation built on over a decade of scientific research at Johns Hopkins University, Belay strives to simplify and enhance the diagnosis and management of CNS cancers. Dr. Nagpal’s leadership is poised to amplify the impact of these tests, as they aim to refine patient care across various clinical settings.

As Belay Diagnostics looks to the future, with Dr. Nagpal at the helm of its clinical division, there is an optimistic outlook on the intersection of advanced diagnostics and enhanced clinical decision-making in the world of oncology. The collaboration between Dr. Nagpal and the Belay team stands to redefine the landscape of cancer diagnostics, empowering healthcare providers and improving patient experiences in profound ways.

For further information about Belay Diagnostics and its innovative testing technology, visit belaydiagnostics.com.