ASCO Applauds Intent to Nominate Dr. Monica Bertagnolli to Lead the National Institutes of Health

May 15, 2023

Today President Joe Biden announced his intent to nominate Monica M. Bertagnolli, MD, FACS, FASCO, to be the next Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

Dr. Bertagnolli, current National Cancer Institute Director (NCI), previously served as president of the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) from 2018-2019. Dr. Bertagnolli is an accomplished cancer surgeon and researcher with deep expertise in community-based cancer research. She has successfully led the NCI and played a critical role in relaunching the president’s Cancer Moonshot Initiative.

A statement by Clifford A. Hudis, MD, FACP, FASCO, Chief Executive Officer, American Society of Clinical Oncology follows:

“We are delighted that Dr. Bertagnolli will be nominated to lead the National Institutes of Health. Her experience in all aspects of medical research, clinical care, and commitment to advancing science, as well as her own experience as a patient, makes her an ideal leader for the nation’s top federal medical research agency at this exciting time in science. Her role shepherding the ambitious Cancer Moonshot initiative, including the recent launch of the National Cancer Plan, clearly demonstrates her ability to take an inspiring vision and create real and meaningful action.

“Dr. Bertagnolli has the ideal combination of scientific background, medical experience, and dynamic leadership skills required to lead NIH. She is an authentic, bold force for patients and for science. We enthusiastically endorse her selection and look forward to working with her to further our shared goals to advance U.S. medical research."