News & Updates
Abramson Cancer Center Director Elected to Lead American Association for Cancer Research
Monday, March 23, 2026
The momentum behind cancer research continues to build in Philadelphia, as Robert Herman Vonderheide, MD, DPhil, director of the Abramson Cancer Center, has been elected President-Elect of the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR). As the world’s largest cancer research organization, AACR plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of cancer science, making this appointment a significant milestone not only for Dr. Vonderheide, but for Philadelphia’s standing as a global leader in innovation. His groundbreaking work in cancer immunotherapy and translational research, alongside the election of E. John Wherry, PhD, to the AACR Board of Directors, highlights the depth of expertise and leadership emerging from Abramson and the University of Pennsylvania.
This moment is also a powerful reminder of the role community support plays in driving progress. Through its mission to fundraise for the Abramson Cancer Center, Philly Fights Cancer helps fuel the research, talent, and breakthroughs that elevate Philadelphia onto the world stage. Leadership appointments like this don’t happen in isolation—they are made possible by sustained investment in science and innovation. As the city continues to lead in the fight against cancer, moments like these reflect both how far we’ve come and the impact we can continue to make together. Read more about Dr. Vonderheide's election here.
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The momentum behind cancer research continues to build in Philadelphia, as Robert Herman Vonderheide, MD, DPhil, director of the Abramson Cancer Center, has been elected President-Elect of the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR). As the world’s largest cancer research organization, AACR plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of cancer science, making this appointment a significant milestone not only for Dr. Vonderheide, but for Philadelphia’s standing as a global leader in innovation. His groundbreaking work in cancer immunotherapy and translational research, alongside the election of E. John Wherry, PhD, to the AACR Board of Directors, highlights the depth of expertise and leadership emerging from Abramson and the University of Pennsylvania.
This moment is also a powerful reminder of the role community support plays in driving progress. Through its mission to fundraise for the Abramson Cancer Center, Philly Fights Cancer helps fuel the research, talent, and breakthroughs that elevate Philadelphia onto the world stage. Leadership appointments like this don’t happen in isolation—they are made possible by sustained investment in science and innovation. As the city continues to lead in the fight against cancer, moments like these reflect both how far we’ve come and the impact we can continue to make together. Read more about Dr. Vonderheide's election here.