NEWS

By AMY PHILBECK
UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center

CHAPEL HILL -- A physician and researcher at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill's Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center became president of the largest radiation oncology society in the world last week.

Dr. Joel Tepper, who has been at UNC for 15 years, will lead the American Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology in its efforts to improve and enhance the practice of radiation oncology both in the United States and internationally.

"Being elected president of this group by my peers is an honor. But more importantly, it gives me the opportunity to influence and enhance the research, education and practice of oncology in order to serve our patients better," said Tepper, chair of UNC’s department of radiation oncology.

Tepper’s research at UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center primarily focuses on the use of combined radiation therapy, chemotherapy and surgery to treat cancers of the digestive system. His research has focused on clinical trials and translational research both locally and with national groups.

As president of the 7,000-member radiation oncology society, he will be involved in efforts to improve patient care and to provide educational and professional development opportunities to other physicians and medical professionals. Tepper will also work to encourage further research and to make sure this research is widely distributed among medical professionals.

"I intend to work to increase the collaboration between the society and other oncology societies to enhance patient care and to further integrate radiation oncology with the newest advances in molecular and tumor biology," Tepper said.

The appointment was announced at the American Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology’s 44th annual meeting last week in New Orleans. Tepper has been a member of the society since 1974.

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Lineberger Center contact: Dianne G. Shaw, director of communications, (919) 966-5905