The O'Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) has recently announced the appointment of Rebecca Arend, M.D., MSPH, Associate Professor in the Division of Gynecologic Oncology and Associate Scientist in the O'Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center, as Co-Leader of the Experimental Therapeutics Program.
Arend's appointment was met with unanimous enthusiasm among the Senior Leadership at the O'Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center. Barry Sleckman, M.D., Director of the Center, expressed his excitement about Arend's new role, stating, "I can think of nobody better positioned to do this than her, and I am thrilled to have her join the O'Neal leadership team."
This appointment is a testament to Arend's outstanding expertise and dedication to advancing cancer research and patient care. She brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to her new leadership position. She has been actively involved in clinical research and has made significant contributions to investigator-initiated clinical trials. Her innovative approach to clinical trials has led to the development of novel treatment strategies for patients with gynecologic cancers, and her work has been widely recognized in the field of oncology.
“Clinical translation of basic science discoveries has always, and continues, to be a passion of mine,” said Arend, “Those of us who do research– whether it be in the lab or in the clinic – all dream to be a part of something that actually changes clinical care. This is something that requires team science.”
As Co-Leader, Arend will be responsible for overseeing the translation of important discoveries made by the Center's researchers into clinical practice. The Experimental Therapeutics Program is dedicated to conducting cutting-edge research and developing innovative therapies for cancer patients. The goals of the program are to develop novel imaging, cancer prevention and therapeutic strategies that provide cancer patients with an opportunity for cure, enhanced survival time, slowed disease progression and improved quality of life.
Arend's leadership will be instrumental in advancing the program's mission to improve patient outcomes through the discovery and implementation of novel cancer treatments. Her strong commitment to advancing cancer research and improving patient care is evident in her past accomplishments and will undoubtedly shape the future of the Experimental Therapeutics Program at the O'Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center.
Arend's appointment as Co-Leader of the Experimental Therapeutics Program is a significant milestone in her illustrious career and a testament to her outstanding leadership and expertise in clinical research. With her appointment, the Experimental Therapeutics Program is poised to continue making groundbreaking discoveries and translating them into tangible improvements in cancer care for patients in Alabama and beyond. Her appointment is a true asset to the O'Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center and the field of oncology.
In her new role, she hopes to further develop the O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center’s portfolio of investigator-initiated clinical trials, and in particular assist in bridging collaborations between the clinicians and the basic scientists at UAB to further synergize the amazing work that everyone is doing.
The appointment of Dr. Rebecca Arend as Co-Leader of the Experimental Therapeutics Program at the O'Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center is a well-deserved recognition of her exceptional leadership and commitment to clinical research. Her expertise in gynecologic cancers and her passion for improving patient care will undoubtedly propel the Experimental Therapeutics Program to new heights.