The National Comprehensive Cancer Network® (NCCN®), an alliance of leading cancer centers that publishes free, evidence-based guidelines for cancer prevention and care, has appointed Renuka Iyer, MD, as its new Chief Medical Officer (CMO).
Dr. Iyer brings extensive experience in oncology leadership and innovation. She currently serves as Professor of Oncology at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, one of NCCN’s member institutions, and holds positions as Section Chief of Gastrointestinal Oncology, Vice Chair of Faculty Affairs in Roswell Park’s Department of Medicine, and Medical Director for Medical Oncology across the Roswell Park Care Network. She is also a Professor of Medicine at the Jacobs School of Medicine at the University of Buffalo.
Dr. Iyer completed her fellowship in medical oncology at Roswell Park, earned her medical degree from Grant Medical College at the University of Mumbai, and completed her residency at Cornell University School of Medicine. She is board certified in internal medicine and oncology and has received awards from the North American Neuroendocrine Tumor Society, The Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation, and the American Cancer Society. Her research focuses on novel therapies for rare cancers, immunotherapy, biomarkers, and quality of life and includes hundreds of peer-reviewed publications.
“Renuka is the perfect person to take on this important role impacting cancer treatment and outcomes worldwide,” said Crystal S. Denlinger, MD, NCCN Chief Executive Officer. “She has demonstrated a strong commitment to advancing research and improving care, contributing significantly to NCCN’s mission. We look forward to her leadership in enhancing access to high-quality, patient-centered cancer care.”
Dr. Iyer has been a member of the NCCN Guidelines Steering Committee since 2023, providing strategic oversight for the Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology, including panel assignments and future program direction. She has served as a panelist for guidelines on Occult Primary Cancer and Hepatobiliary Cancer and contributed to other professional organization guidelines.
As CMO, Dr. Iyer will assume clinical leadership of the NCCN Guidelines program, which encompasses 90 guidelines covering most cancer types, prevention, screening, and supportive care. The guidelines are updated regularly and available in multiple formats, including the interactive NCCN Guidelines Navigator™. She will also oversee related point-of-care resources, the NCCN Continuing Education department, the Journal of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (JNCCN), and participate in global and policy initiatives.
“I am honored to assume this role and excited to contribute to NCCN during a time of significant updates and innovation,” said Dr. Iyer. “After 21 years in academic oncology, I am eager to advance high-quality cancer care and support the NCCN mission.”
Dr. Renuka Iyer will begin her role as NCCN Chief Medical Officer on February 26, 2026.
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