Pancreatic Cancer Early Detection

There is currently no standard early detection test for pancreatic cancer, which often presents late in its course, when it is most difficult to treat. Investigators are working across disciplines to apply their expertise in genetics, epigenetics, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and clinical care to translate their discoveries into new early detection strategies. Dana-Farber investigators are working to change those odds through the Bob Parsons Fellowship and the Bob Parsons Fund for Early Detection under the leadership of Brian Wolpin, MD, MPH, Director, Gastrointestinal Cancer Center; Co-Director, Pancreas and Biliary Tumor Center; Robert T. and Judith B. Hale Chair in Pancreatic Cancer.

The Bob Parsons Fellowship, currently held by Qiaoli Wang, MD, PhD, provides an early career researcher with opportunity to pursue their curiosity, creativity, and scientific interests in a way that catalyzes extraordinary discoveries in pancreatic cancer. The Bob Parsons Fellow is currently the only fellow investigating early detection in pancreatic cancer.

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute’s Fellowship Program is among the most esteemed and competitive training programs in the country. This program trains a new generation of physician-scientists to carry forward the Institute’s standards of excellence in research and patient care. This commitment to training is part of what makes Dana-Farber a world-class institution setting the standard for cancer medicine. In fact, Dana-Farber fellows are some of the most sought-after oncologists and often go on to lead programs at Dana-Farber and other institutions worldwide.