Cancer Program Recruits Renowned Senior Researchers
Among the many oncology experts recruited to Ohio State’s cancer program in 2014 are three renowned senior researchers from other prestigious institutions:
Roman Skoracki, MD, FRCSC, FACS, is a professor in the College of Medicine, Department of Plastic Surgery, where he directs the Division of Reconstructive Oncological Plastic Surgery. Skoracki, who also is a member of the Cancer Control Program at the OSUCCC –James, came to Ohio State from The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. His areas of clinical expertise include lymphedema surgery, reconstructive microsurgery of the head, neck and breast, sarcoma reconstruction and abdominal wall reconstruction—all focused on improving patient outcomes physically and psychologically. He has strong collaborative research interests.
James Rocco, MD, PhD, is a professor in the College of Medicine, Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Cancer Surgery, where he directs the Division of Head and Neck Oncology. He also is a member of the Translational Therapeutics Program at the OSUCCC – James. Rocco was recruited from the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary and Massachusetts General Hospital. As a researcher, he has translated basic science investigations on mechanisms of cell death after therapy into clinical practice by identifying novel biomarkers that predict survival in patients with head and neck cancer.
Michelle Naughton, PhD, MPH, is a professor in the College of Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Cancer Prevention and Control. Naughton, who also is a member of the Cancer Control Program at the OSUCCC – James, came to Ohio State from Wake Forest University School of Medicine. Her research focuses on the impact of cancer and its treatments on the health-related quality of life and daily functioning of patients and long-term survivors.