UC San Diego Health recruits World-Renowned Surgeon as the new Cancer Center Director
Starting April 1, 2024, Diane Simeone, MD, will take on the role of director at the University of California San Diego (UCSD) Health Moores Cancer Center. Simeone, who brings a wealth of experience from her previous position at the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), describes her new role as an “opportunity of a lifetime.” As an expert in pancreatic surgery and surgical oncology, Simeone aims to expand the center’s clinical trial goals and enhance early detection efforts for pancreatic cancer. She emphasizes the alignment of the mission across the board at UCSD, focusing on patient care and research in cancer treatment. Dr. Simeone was recruited following an extensive national executive search effort.
Simeone’s career has been marked by significant contributions to both clinical practice and research, particularly in the field of pancreatic cancer. Before her appointment at UCSD, Simeone held prestigious positions at New York University Langone Health, where she was the Laura and Isaac Perlmutter Professor of Surgery, Director of the Pancreatic Cancer Center, and Associate Director of Translational Research at Perlmutter Cancer Center. Her previous roles have also included leadership positions within the pancreatic cancer research community, such as chairing the scientific and medical advisory board of the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network.
In her interview with CancerNetwork®, Simeone expressed her excitement about joining UCSD, citing the institution’s reputation as an epicenter of scientific inquiry and its thriving biotech community. She looks forward to leveraging UCSD’s scientific strength and clinical expertise to drive advancements in cancer treatment, from basic science and discovery to the development of new drugs, diagnostics, and prevention methods.
Simeone’s immediate goals include preparing for the Cancer Center Support Grant submission to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and focusing on expanding clinical trials at UCSD. She envisions the Moores Cancer Center growing in national and international visibility as a leader in innovative cancer treatment, diagnosis, and prevention.
About UCSD Moores Cancer Center
UCSD Moores Cancer Center is one of the leading institutions dedicated to cancer research, treatment, and education. As part of UC San Diego Health, the center is known for its comprehensive cancer care and innovative research, making significant strides in the fight against cancer. The center’s mission is to translate promising scientific discoveries into new and better options for the care of patients with cancer.
About Dr. Diane Simeone
Dr. Diane Simeone is a renowned pancreatic surgeon and surgical oncologist with a distinguished career in both clinical practice and research. Her work has significantly contributed to the understanding and treatment of pancreatic cancer. As the incoming director of the UCSD Moores Cancer Center, Dr. Simeone brings her expertise and vision to lead the center in its mission to advance cancer research and provide the highest quality of patient care.
Sources:
- News Source: CancerNetwork
- UCSD Health Press Release: World-Renowned Surgeon named Director of Moores Cancer Center
- UCSD Moores Cancer Center: About UCSD Moores Cancer Center
- Dr. Diane Simeone’s Professional Profile: Diane Simeone’s Professional Profile