George Weiner, MD, professor in Hematology, Oncology, and Blood & Marrow Transplantation, has been appointed to the National Cancer Institute (NCI) Board of Scientific Advisors (BSA).

The NCI BSA is a committee of the nation’s best oncology researchers and advisers, who come together three times per year to discuss scientific policy, prominent research, and the extramural programs of the NCI. The board’s members counsel the NCI Director and the Extramural Division, Office, and Center Directors, offering valuable insight into how the Institute can best support cancer research for researchers, clinicians, and patients.

Weiner, who recently “stepped back” after a 25-year tenure as director of the Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center (HCCC), has a strong connection to the NCI and decades of experience as a physician scientist.

“I served as the PI [Principal Investigator] of multiple NCI grants, including over 20 years directing both a Cancer Center Support Grant P30 and a Specialized Program of Research Excellence (SPORE) Grant,” Weiner said. “I also have had extensive experience reviewing grants and serving as an external advisor to multiple research programs and centers across the country. I hope this experience will be of value to the board.”

In his time as director, Weiner not only earned the first NCI designation for the HCCC in 2000, but led the center in maintaining the designation since—making it the only NCI-designated comprehensive cancer center in Iowa. These ties make him especially equipped to collaborate with the other members of the NCI BSA, and particularly in tune with their goals as an organization. Weiner’s primary focus is to provide advice on how they can use resources to leverage the strengths and support the research efforts of cancer centers around the country.

“More specifically, I am interested in exploring approaches that enhance the sustainability of high-quality team research efforts and supporting translational research involving basic cancer research, clinical research, and community-engaged research,” Weiner said.

This approach has been at the center of Weiner’s philosophy since he joined the HCCC; one that has transformed it into the center of excellence it is today. With his continued contributions as Block Chair of Cancer Research, in addition to his role on the BSA, Weiner’s “step back” is also a step forward. Applying his expertise to a broader scope, with the resources available to the NCI, will continue to help make cancer treatment safer and more affordable, accessible, and effective.