The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center
Professor with Tenure, Department of Gastrointestinal (GI) Medical Oncology, Division of Cancer Medicine; Ellen F. Knisely Distinguished Chair in Colon Cancer Research, Department of Gastrointestinal (GI) Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center
NANETS is honored to present James C. Yao, MD, with the medical society's 2024 Lifetime Achievement Award.
Dr. Yao’s dedication and pioneering contributions to the field of neuroendocrine tumor research and treatment have made a profound impact on patient care and advancing therapeutic options.
Dr. Yao co-founded the North American Neuroendocrine Tumor Society in 2007, along with his colleague, Dr. Larry Kvols, and he served as Chair of the Society from 2012 to 2014. He and his founding members reflect the organization's commitment to a multidisciplinary approach consisting of medical professionals and research scientists involved in different specialties of NETs.
Throughout his career, Dr. Yao has championed innovative approaches to gastrointestinal oncology and become a highly respected leader in cancer medicine. His role at MD Anderson Cancer Center, in the Division of Cancer Medicine, has enabled him to mentor and inspire the next generation of oncologists while driving critical advancements in neuroendocrine tumor care.
Accolades from longtime colleagues and friends include:
Dr. Daniel Halperin, MD Anderson Cancer Center, and member of NANETS Board of Directors:
“Dr. Yao is the consummate academic physician. He has not only impacted countless lives as an individual clinician and changed the landscape of our field as an investigator, but he has evolved the very way we think about making progress for patients with NET. Through his character, dedication, and generosity, he has built a legacy of scholarship, teaching, and leadership that inspires so many of us in our daily lives. I feel so fortunate to count him as a colleague and friend.”
Dr. Heloisa Soares, Huntsman Cancer Center, and past member of NANETS Board of Directors:
“As an international leader in neuroendocrine cancer, Dr. Yao’s contributions have shaped the clinical landscape and laid a foundation for future breakthroughs for the treatment of neuroendocrine tumors. His monumental legacy inspires a generation of researchers and clinicians to pursue excellence in patient-centered cancer care.”
Dr. Arvind Dasari, MD Anderson Cancer Center and member NANETS Board of Directors:
“Dr. Yao’s trailblazing career has truly transformed the neuroendocrine field. His dedication to patient care, mentorship and service to the NET community are the common threads that have embodied all his efforts throughout his illustrious career. His many research contributions range from the first large scale epidemiological efforts to leading pivotal clinical trials of everolimus and to numerous translational efforts, including the ongoing effort to establish preclinical models for studying these malignancies. His work will continue to influence, shape, and accelerate the development of the neuroendocrine field for a long time to come.”