Penn Scientist Elected President of Top Cancer Research Organization

Robert Vonderheide to lead prestigious cancer research group

Mar. 29, 2026 at 12:33pm

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University of Pennsylvania scientist Robert Vonderheide has been elected as the new president of a leading cancer research organization. In this role, Vonderheide will help guide the group's efforts to develop new treatments for difficult-to-treat cancers and explore ways to prevent cancer before it develops.

Why it matters

Vonderheide's election to this prestigious position reflects the growing influence and expertise of researchers at the University of Pennsylvania in the field of cancer research. His leadership will help shape the priorities and direction of one of the most important cancer research organizations in the world.

The details

Vonderheide, a professor at the University of Pennsylvania's Perelman School of Medicine, was recently elected as the new president of the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR). The AACR is one of the largest and most influential cancer research organizations, with over 50,000 members worldwide. In his new role, Vonderheide will help guide the AACR's efforts to advance cancer research and improve patient outcomes.

  • Vonderheide was elected as the new AACR president in March 2026.

The players

Robert Vonderheide

A professor at the University of Pennsylvania's Perelman School of Medicine and the newly elected president of the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR).

American Association for Cancer Research (AACR)

One of the largest and most influential cancer research organizations in the world, with over 50,000 members globally.

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What they’re saying

“I am honored to lead the AACR during this exciting time in cancer research. Our field is making tremendous progress in developing new treatments and understanding how to prevent cancer, and I look forward to working with our members to build on these advances.”

— Robert Vonderheide, President, American Association for Cancer Research

The takeaway

Vonderheide's election to lead the AACR reflects the growing prominence of cancer researchers at the University of Pennsylvania and their contributions to advancing the field of cancer science and treatment.