Welcoming the Future of Oncology: Introducing the New Caris Precision Oncology Alliance Fellows
Caris Life Sciences, a trailblazer in AI-driven precision medicine, has announced the appointment of 15 distinguished physician-scientists to its esteemed 2025/2026 Caris Precision Oncology Alliance (Caris POA) Fellows Forum. This rigorous two-year program is designed for developing oncologists, empowering them with hands-on experience, mentorship, and access to invaluable molecular data.
A Competitive Selection Process
To qualify for this prestigious Fellows Forum, candidates must be actively involved in their first or second year of oncology fellowship at one of the institutions affiliated with Caris POA. An extensive review process was utilized to evaluate applicants based on their academic credentials, research experience, and their potential to contribute to the field of molecular oncology. The program is structured to provide participants with the necessary tools and knowledge to forge significant advances in cancer treatment and diagnosis through precision medicine.
What the Fellows Will Experience
Selected fellows will gain:
- - Direct Mentorship: Participants will have the opportunity to work closely with top experts in the field, including faculty at Caris POA institutions.
- - Access to Extensive Data: They will utilize Caris' innovative CODEai database, featuring a vast catalog of molecular data alongside treatment information and clinical outcomes derived from over 484,000 patients.
- - Collaborative Research Projects: The program emphasizes collaboration, allowing fellows to engage in research initiatives across 97 cancer institutions and research consortia.
- - Comprehensive Learning: Structured educational modules, virtual webinars, and lab tours will be available, expanding their knowledge and practical experience in oncology.
Dr. James Hamrick, Chairman of the Caris Precision Oncology Alliance, stated, "Investing in the next generation of oncology leaders allows us to advance research while also accelerating discoveries that will change how we diagnose and treat cancer." He highlighted that the new class is representative of the future of precision oncology, showcasing great potential for impactful advancements in the field.
Commitment and Community Building
Fellows are expected to dedicate a portion of their time each month, even as they balance ongoing clinical or academic responsibilities. Activities will include data analysis, seminars, and mentorship sessions focused on refining their expertise in molecular oncology. The forum also provides a platform for fellows to exchange insights and foster community through regular gatherings. Highlights include a guided tour of Caris' Blood and Tissue Labs in Phoenix, participation in the Caris POA Summit at the ASCO Annual Meeting, and monthly virtual workshops aimed at skill-building and research updates.
Dr. Emil Lou, Chair of the Caris Precision Oncology Alliance Fellows Forum, expressed his enthusiasm for mentoring emerging leaders. He shared, "I'm honored to further the POA's commitment by investing in the future of precision oncology. Mentoring the next generation through collaboration and empowering fellows to transform molecular insights into discoveries will enhance patient care for years to come."
Meet the 2025/2026 Fellows
The newly inducted fellows for this term include:
- - Akram Alkrekshi, MD (MedStar Georgetown University Hospital)
- - Stefan Barisic, MD (Duke University Hospital)
- - Paul Stendahl Dy, MD, MBA (University of Maryland Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center)
- - Bharath Ganesh, MD, FACP (Thomas Jefferson University, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center)
- - Kevin C. Graf, MD (Medical University of South Carolina)
- - Christopher Grant, MD (UC San Diego School of Medicine)
- - Jennifer Hwang, MD (The Ohio State University)
- - Anand Kornepati, MD, PhD (Duke University Hospital)
- - Samantha Leite MD (National Capital Consortium)
- - Dan Morgenstern Kaplan, MD, MSc (University of Miami)
- - Janina Pearce, MD, PhD (Women and Infants Hospital/Brown University)
- - Natalie Reed, DO (Atrium Health Levine Cancer)
- - Ryan Michael Reyes, MD, PhD (Washington University in St. Louis)
- - Kelsey Roof, MD (Emory University School of Medicine)
- - Grace Sun, MD (UC Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center)
About Caris Life Sciences
Caris Life Sciences is at the forefront of precision medicine, employing advanced technologies such as AI and machine learning to revolutionize healthcare. The company specializes in comprehensive molecular profiling and aims to decode the complex biology of diseases like cancer, leading to breakthroughs in diagnostics and treatment.
With headquarters in Irving, Texas, and a global presence that includes offices in Phoenix, New York, Cambridge, Tokyo, and Basel, Caris is committed to transforming patient care through innovative solutions. As they continue to expand their efforts in enhancing the field of oncology through initiatives like the Caris POA Fellows Forum, the potential for a healthier future in cancer treatment becomes increasingly attainable.