Jennifer Pietenpol, executive vice president for research and chief scientific and strategy officer at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, has been awarded the 2024 Science of Oncology Award from the American Society of Clinical Oncology. The award is presented annually to an individual who has made outstanding contributions to cancer research.
Dr. Pietenpol has been a faculty member with Vanderbilt University for the past three decades. She is a professor of biochemistry and otolaryngology, currently holding the title of Ingram Professor of Cancer Research. In addition to overseeing research at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, she also serves as the Brock Family Director in Career Development. Her research has made significant contributions to clinical breast cancer treatment.
Outside of her work with Vanderbilt University, Dr. Pietenpol serves as chief scientific advisor for the Susan F. Komen Foundation and board advisor for the National Cancer Institute Comprehensive Cancer Centers. She was previously appointed by President George W. Bush to serve on the National Cancer Advisory Board for a six-year term. Additionally, she previously served as a member of the Blue Ribbon Panel, advising for the National Cancer Moonshot Initiative overseen by then Vice President Joe Biden.
Dr. Pientpol is an honors graduate of Carleton College in Northfield, Minnesota, where she majored in biology. She received her Ph.D. in cell biology from Vanderbilt University.