COLUMBUS, Ohio – The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC – James) has announced the recruitment of Glen Barber, PhD, to lead the Center for Innate Immunity and Inflammation within the Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology (PIIO).

Barber will assume this position Aug. 1, 2024, will also serve as a professor in the College of Medicine, Department of Surgery/Division of Surgical Oncology. He most recently served as professor and chair of cell biology at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine.

“Glen brings a wealth of experience and expertise in cancer research, immunotherapy and technology commercialization and is internationally recognized for his groundbreaking research in cellular sensing mechanisms. We are thrilled to bring into the fold as part our leadership team for our ever-expanding immuno-oncology research institute,” said Raphael Pollock, MD, PhD, director of the OSUCCC – James.

Barber’s discoveries have advanced the understanding of innate immunity and its role in cancer control, inflammation-associated cancer, and the development of viral oncolytic agents and immunotherapeutics. His team discovered the cytosolic DNA signaling pathway controlled by the innate immune regulator STING (stimulator of interferon genes), which plays a crucial role in antitumor cellular immunity.

“Glen’s work has not only shed light on the molecular mechanisms underlying innate immune responses but has also led to the development of therapeutic strategies for cancer. We think he will be an powerful addition to our already robust team of scientists working on immune-oncology strategies to improve the health of our patients at the bedside,” said Zihai Li, MD, PhD, founding director of the PIIO, Deputy Director for Translational Research at the OSUCCC – James and Klotz Chair in Cancer Research at The Ohio State University College of Medicine.

Barber will also serve as associate director for entrepreneurship and technology commercialization at the OSUCCC – James, where he will lead efforts to translate research innovations into practical applications and to foster collaborations with industry partners.

To learn more about research efforts the PIIO, visit cancer.osu.edu/PIIO.

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