Accomplished Physician-Researcher Tapped to Lead Roswell Park’s Cancer Genetics and Genomics Department

BUFFALO, N.Y. — In recognition of her deep experience in personalized medicine and her many contributions toward improving treatments for cancer, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center has appointed Agnes Witkiewicz, MD, as Chair of Cancer Genetics and Genomics. She will also hold the John & Santa Palisano Endowed Chair of Cancer Genetics.

An internationally recognized clinician-scientist who combines groundbreaking laboratory research with precision medicine, Dr. Witkiewicz joined Roswell Park in 2018. Her research interests include identifying molecular abnormalities and applying effective therapies to improve outcomes and quality of life for cancer patients. She will also Co-Lead the Cancer Center Support Grant (CCSG) Genetics and Genomics Program.

The study of genes and their role in inheritance, or genetics, as well as investigating all of someone’s genes, their interactions with each other and the environment (genomics) are extraordinarily important when it comes to changes that drive or predict cancer initiation or progression. Scientists at Roswell Park look at both to improve our understanding of what gives rise to cancer, identify targeted therapies and provide biomarkers in individual cancer patients.

“Dr. Witkiewicz’s expertise in molecular biology, genetics and therapeutics helps guide and shape our clinical trials in ways that benefit our patients and greater research efforts immensely,” says Candace S. Johnson, PhD, President & CEO and M&T Presidential Chair in Leadership at Roswell Park. “We look forward to watching our programs related to cancer genetics reach new heights under her direction.”

Dr. Witkiewicz is a board-certified pathologist with a subspecialty in dermatopathology. Her medical degree is from Wroclaw University and Medical School in Poland, and she completed residencies at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center/Harvard Medical School and UMass Memorial Medical Center.

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Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center is a community united by the drive to eliminate cancer’s grip on humanity by unlocking its secrets through personalized approaches and unleashing the healing power of hope. Founded by Dr. Roswell Park in 1898, it is the only National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center in Upstate New York. Learn more at www.roswellpark.org, or contact us at 1-800-ROSWELL (1-800-767-9355) or ASKRoswell@RoswellPark.org.