“What’s next for cancer research?”
It’s a question that drives every scientist, clinician, and innovator in the NFCR network—and one that takes center stage in the newest episode of All Things Cancer, hosted by NFCR President and CEO Dr. Sujuan Ba.
In this special conversation, two generations of cancer researchers come together to explore how far we’ve come—and how bold collaboration is shaping what’s next.
From Chemotherapy to Cell Therapy: A 50-Year Journey
For Dr. Brian Leyland-Jones, NFCR’s longtime medical advisor and one of the most respected oncologists in the field, the evolution of cancer care has been nothing short of extraordinary.
“When I began treating patients,” he recalls, “we had nothing but chemotherapy. Today, I can sequence nearly every patient and tailor therapies based on the mutations driving their disease.”
Throughout his decades-long partnership with NFCR, Dr. Leyland-Jones has witnessed the organization’s pivotal role in advancing early-stage discoveries—funding the kind of high-risk, high-reward science that traditional agencies often overlook. “NFCR funds the impossible dream,” he says, “supporting brilliant people and ideas that move the field forward.”
A New Generation Pushing the Boundaries of Immunotherapy
Representing the next wave of innovation is Dr. Avery Posey, an NFCR-supported scientist at the University of Pennsylvania whose laboratory is pioneering next-generation CAR-T cell therapies for solid tumors such as pancreatic cancer.
While CAR-T therapy has already transformed treatment for certain blood cancers, its success in solid tumors has remained elusive. Dr. Posey’s research focuses on making these immune-cell therapies more precise, more durable, and less toxic—targeting cancer cells through changes in protein structures and carbohydrate signatures known as glycans.
His work is helping redefine what’s possible in immunotherapy, offering hope that these breakthroughs could soon extend to millions of patients whose cancers are currently untreatable with CAR-T.
Looking Ahead: CRISPR, Early Detection, and Collaboration
Throughout their discussion, Drs. Posey and Leyland-Jones explore emerging frontiers—from CRISPR-based gene editing and RNA therapeutics to liquid biopsies and new strategies for early detection. They agree that the next decade will bring unprecedented progress—but only if researchers continue to collaborate across disciplines and generations.
As Dr. Leyland-Jones notes, “We’re stronger when we work together. NFCR’s culture of partnership is what keeps innovation alive.”
About All Things Cancer
Each episode of All Things Cancer will spotlight the most pressing topics in oncology, from cutting-edge treatments and emerging research to personal stories of resilience and hope. More than just a podcast, it’s a platform for raising awareness, advancing cancer education, and fostering a global community of support and collaboration.
Hosted by NFCR CEO, Sujuan Ba, Ph.D., this compelling series will bring together the entire ecosystem of cancer research—including leading scientists, oncologists, doctors, patient advocates, caregivers, biotech innovators, and survivors—for powerful discussions on the breakthroughs shaping the future of cancer research, treatment, and care.
All Things Cancer is now available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, with new episodes released biweekly.
Subscribe now to stay up to date on the latest episodes and join the conversation that’s shaping the future of cancer research. Cancer impacts everyone—whether you’re a patient, caregiver, advocate, or researcher, this podcast delivers invaluable insights from those on the frontlines of the fight against it.
