Yu Fujiwara, MD

Born and raised in Tokyo, Japan, I earned my MD from Keio University School of Medicine in Tokyo. Before coming to Roswell Park, I completed the internal medicine residency at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai (Beth Israel). I chose Roswell Park for its regional significance, its rich century-long history in cancer research, and NCI comprehensive cancer designation status. 

My interest in hematology and oncology stems from a desire to provide care for patients with advanced, often incurable cancers, and to advance research for new drug development and treatment strategies. I have actively contributed to translational and clinical research in cancer immunotherapy, focusing on biomarkers, resistance mechanisms, and safety, resulting in publications in journals such as Lancet Oncology and Cancer Cell. A particularly significant accomplishment was leading a multi-institutional project that compiled and analyzed safety data from multiple clinical trials of neoadjuvant and adjuvant cancer immunotherapy, published in Lancet Oncology, and provided valuable insights for discussions around the optimal duration and risk/benefit assessment of perioperative immunotherapy. 

Currently, my academic and clinical interests are focused on investigator-initiated trials utilizing immunotherapy and translational research aimed at enabling precision medicine in solid tumors and genitourinary cancers. 

Outside of work, I enjoy driving, traveling, exploring restaurants, playing the piano, and walking to appreciate the beautiful nature around Buffalo.