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Robert A. Winn, M.D., director and Lipman Chair in Oncology at VCU Massey Cancer Center, has been inducted into the 2023 class of fellows of the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) Academy.

At a ceremony on April 14, the AACR recognized Winn “for heralded contributions to lung cancer research, cancer and health disparities and community-based health care, including characterizing the molecular mechanisms that drive cellular proliferation and the role of senescence in lung cancer; and for dedicated efforts to champion health equity and access to care among underserved, high-risk cancer populations.”

Winn is among 23 new fellows inducted into the AACR Academy this year.

“These individuals from across the world have all made significant and groundbreaking contributions to cancer research,” said Margaret Foti, Ph.D., M.D. (hc), CEO of the AACR. “The 2023 class of fellows includes pioneers from numerous scientific disciplines who have collectively shaped our understanding and treatment of cancer. We are deeply honored to have them join our 289 existing fellows.”

According to the AACR, fellows of the AACR Academy serve as a global brain trust of top contributors to cancer science and medicine; they help to advance the AACR’s mission to prevent and cure all cancers through research, education, communication, collaboration and cancer research funding, along with science policy and advocacy.

“When I read the list of current and past fellows of the AACR Academy, I am honored to see my name among pioneers in oncology whose careers I have revered for many years,” said Winn. “I thank the AACR peer review committee for nominating me, electing me and allowing me to serve the cancer community in this role.”

In addition to participating in meetings and mentorship opportunities to accelerate progress in cancer research, the AACR Academy requires fellows to

1. identify scientific priorities that will contribute to the AACR’s programs and activities
2. influence science and public policy
3. create and/or sign letters addressed to members of the U.S. Congress and to the Administration about scientific and policy issues
4. advocate for increased federal funding for cancer research and cancer-related sciences

Fellows also work with the AACR to educate the public about the organization and ways to reduce the cancer burden through public health efforts and research.

The induction ceremony for the 2023 class of fellows of the AACR Academy took place at the AACR Annual Meeting, held April 14 - 19 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Fla.

A portion of this article is re-purposed with permission from a press release issued by AACR.

Written by: Amy Lacey