NCCN Appoints Dr Renuka Iyer as New Chief Medical Officer

Dr Renuka Iyer Named Chief Medical Officer of NCCN, Bringing Extensive Oncology Leadership

The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) has announced the appointment of Dr Renuka Iyer as its next Chief Medical Officer, signalling a major leadership transition for the organisation that shapes some of the world’s most widely adopted cancer treatment guidelines. Dr Iyer, a respected clinician–scientist with over two decades of experience, will formally assume her role on 26 February 2026 .

Distinguished Clinical Career in Gastrointestinal Oncology

Dr Iyer is currently a Professor of Oncology at the Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center , where she heads the Gastrointestinal Oncology division and supervises medical oncology operations across its regional network. She graduated from Grant Medical College, completed her residency at Cornell University , and pursued fellowship training at Roswell Park. Board certified in both internal medicine and oncology, she is recognised for her expertise in treating gastrointestinal malignancies and rare cancers.

Notable Research, Publications and Professional Service

Her research portfolio spans immunotherapy, biomarker discovery, and quality-of-life improvement for cancer patients. With numerous peer-reviewed publications and accolades from leading oncology societies, Dr Iyer has contributed significantly to evidence-based cancer care. She has also taken part in national guideline development through various panel roles and has served on the NCCN Guidelines Steering Committee since 2023 .

Leading NCCN’s Expansive Clinical Guidelines and Education Programme

In her new capacity, Dr Iyer will oversee NCCN’s suite of 90 clinical practice guidelines , which underpin cancer prevention, treatment, survivorship and supportive care recommendations worldwide. She will guide updates to the NCCN Compendia, strengthen continuing medical education activities, support global policy engagements, and contribute to editorial leadership for NCCN’s official journal.

Exam Oriented Facts

• Dr Renuka Iyer becomes NCCN Chief Medical Officer on 26 February 2026 .

• She is Section Chief of Gastrointestinal Oncology at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center .

• NCCN publishes 90 evidence-based cancer guidelines , updated at least annually.

• Dr Iyer joined the NCCN Guidelines Steering Committee in 2023.

Advancing NCCN’s Mission for Global Cancer Care Quality

NCCN leadership emphasised that Dr Iyer’s depth of clinical experience and commitment to innovation align closely with the organisation’s strategic goals. Her appointment comes as NCCN expands its global collaborations, educational reach and equity-focused initiatives, aiming to elevate cancer care standards and accessibility worldwide.