Immunotherapy cancer researcher receives prestigious award

Recognized for her work in bridging the gap between clinical oncology and tumor immunology, Padmanee Sharma, M.D., Ph.D., is the 2018 recipient of the Julie and Ben Rogers Award for Excellence in Research at MD Anderson Cancer Center. Sharma, a professor in Genitourinary Medical Oncology with an adjunct appointment as professor in Immunology, received the $15,000 prize in September.

Sharma joined MD Anderson in 2004 and has continually expanded her research efforts over more than 14 years. In 2012, she established MD Anderson’s Moon Shots Program® immunotherapy platform. As its scientific director, she is involved with more than 100 immunotherapy clinical trials across multiple MD Anderson departments and pharmaceutical companies. She also coordinates activities of scientists, clinicians, data coordinators and administrative team members.

“I’m always inspired by the institution’s humble and very dedicated physicians, nurses, researchers, administrators and other supportive staff who change the lives of thousands of patients annually,” says Regina Rogers, a member of the MD Anderson Cancer Center Board of Visitors who established the award in 1987 in honor of her parents, Julie and Ben Rogers.

2018 finalists, who each received a $2,500 prize, include Simona Colla, Ph.D., associate professor, Leukemia Research; Vanessa Jensen, D.V.M., chair ad interim, Veterinary Medicine and Surgery; Sattva Neelapu, M.D., professor, Lymphoma/Myeloma; and Nakia Spencer, M.S., institute associate scientist IV, Center for Co-Clinical Trials.

The Rogers Award rotates annually among the focus areas of patient care, research, education, prevention and administration.