The OSUCCC – James attracts some of the brightest minds in cancer research, and Pelotonia dollars help them resume their studies when they arrive. Among those recruited in 2014 are these three senior researchers.
Roman Skoracki, MD, FRCSC, FACS, is a professor in the College of Medicine, Department of Plastic Surgery, where he directs the Oncology Section. Skoracki 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 also has a strong research interest and collaborates with scientists in various disciplines related to the care of patients with cancer.
James Rocco, MD, PhD, is a professor in the College of Medicine, Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, where he directs the Division of Head and Neck Oncology. Rocco, who also is a member of the Translational Therapeutics Program at the OSUCCC – James, 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.