Research in the Oncology Division

Our faculty and the strength of their independent programs are the heart and soul of our research. Each faculty member represents an area of cancer research, and each has built a team focusing on a specific cancer problem. Our current areas of basic research concentration are immunology, genetics and genomics, pharmacology, DNA repair and oncogene action. Many of these programs generate novel diagnostic or therapeutic approaches, which are being tested in clinical trials. Our clinical investigators are able to draw on the discoveries from our own laboratories, from the best new leads by industrial collaborators, and from colleagues both within Stanford and around the world.

Clinical Trials

Stanford conducts many cancer clinical trials. The most current clinical trials information is maintained on the Web by the Stanford Cancer Center in its searchable cancer clinical trial database. More information on clinical trials is available by calling the contact person listed for each trial in which you are interested, or by calling the Cancer Clinical Trials Office at (650) 498-7061.

Postdoctoral Training

In addition to training Oncology and Hematology/Oncology fellows, the division is committed to supporting young investigators in advanced studies beyond the doctoral level in preparation for an independent career.  Postdoctoral Scholars are appointed for a limited period of time and may participate on Stanford research projects and/or may be supported by external awards or fellowships. In all cases, their appointment at Stanford is for the purpose of advanced studies and training under the mentorship of a Stanford faculty member.

As a private institution, Stanford University has a strong and ongoing commitment to the principle of diversity. In that spirit, we especially encourage applications from all people including women, members of ethnic minority groups, and disabled persons.

 If you are interested in fellowships or assistantships in any of our laboratories, please contact the Principal Investigator.  Click here for a list of our current postdoctoral trainees.

Institutional Protocols

Stanford researchers are active participants in Oncology cooperative groups, which conduct multi-center clinical trials in public and private institutions across the country. Our oncologists participate in the Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG), the National Surgical Adjuvant Breast and Bowel Program (NSABP), the Gynecologic Oncology Group (GOG), and the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG).

All of these groups offer a broad variety of Phase I–III clinical trials. Cooperative Group trials at Stanford are listed on Stanford Cancer Center’s clinical trials website. Individualized treatment programs are devised for patients who are not eligible for research protocols or who decline participation.

Research Laboratories

Nine labs are directed by faculty in the Division of Oncology. Explore each lab in detail.