In this episode, Dr. Sujuan Ba is joined by Dr. Ann Barker, one of the most influential architects of modern cancer research, for a wide-ranging conversation on where the field is headed and what must change to accelerate progress.

Dr. Barker shares why cancer research is at a critical inflection point, driven by an explosion of data, the rise of artificial intelligence, and the urgent need to move beyond siloed science. Together, they explore the promise and limitations of AI in oncology, the importance of high-quality and standardized data, and why collaboration across disciplines is no longer optional.

The conversation also dives into funding challenges, the role of nonprofits in building shared research infrastructure, and how convergence science has powered landmark efforts like The Cancer Genome Atlas and GBM AGILE. Dr. Barker reflects on her career, the lessons learned from large-scale collaboration, and why this moment may be one of the most exciting in the history of biomedical research.

This episode offers a candid, big-picture look at how AI, data, and collaboration could shape the future of cancer research — and what it will take to get there.

In this heartfelt episode of All Things Cancer, NFCR CEO Dr. Sujuan Ba sits down with Shereen Pavlides and her daughter, Isabella Pavlides, to explore how personal loss can spark powerful action.

From Isabella’s leadership through Play4TheCure and her growing Dine & Donate initiative to the lasting influence of her grandmother Esther’s seven-year journey with pancreatic cancer, this conversation highlights caregiving, resilience, and the next generation of advocates stepping up for cancer research.

It’s a moving reminder of how community, compassion, and initiative help make cures possible.

In this episode of All Things Cancer, Dr. Sujuan Ba sits down with Dr. Monica Bertagnolli — surgeon, scientist, former Director of the National Cancer Institute and former Director of the National Institutes of Health — for one of the most candid and forward-looking conversations we've ever shared.

Dr. Bertagnolli reflects on her journey from a cattle ranch in rural Wyoming to leading the nation’s most important scientific institutions, the challenges facing today’s cancer research ecosystem, the impact of declining federal funding, and what it will take to protect the future of discovery. She also offers a clear-eyed look at artificial intelligence, the trust required to use it in patient care, and the national learning health system we must build to ensure every community benefits.

A compelling conversation about leadership, equity, scientific progress, and the urgent need to support cancer research.