Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSK) recently hosted a distinguished reception to honor Dr. Yelena Janjigian, Chief of the Gastrointestinal Oncology Service, for being named the recipient of the Endowed Carroll and Milton Petrie Chair. This appointment represents one of the institution’s highest recognitions, celebrating a physician scientist whose work has significantly advanced the understanding and treatment of cancer. The event gathered MSK leadership, faculty, trainees, and supporters to acknowledge Dr. Janjigian’s exceptional contributions to oncology.
About Dr. Yelena Janjigian
Dr. Janjigian is an internationally recognized leader in gastrointestinal oncology, with a focus on gastric and esophageal cancers. She serves as Chief of the Gastrointestinal Oncology Service at MSK and holds an academic appointment as Professor at Weill Cornell Medicine. Over the past decade, she has led transformative work defining the molecular drivers of upper gastrointestinal cancers and advancing novel therapeutic strategies that have reshaped global standards of care. Her clinical research portfolio includes landmark trials in immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and biomarker-directed treatments that have extended survival for patients with advanced disease.
Beyond her scientific accomplishments, Dr. Yelena Janjigian is admired for her dedication to patient-centered care and her strong commitment to mentorship. She is a central figure in shaping the next generation of oncology leaders, championing translational science, compassionate care, and innovation.
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The Significance of the Carroll and Milton Petrie Endowed Chair
The Carroll and Milton Petrie Chair is one of MSK’s prestigious endowed positions, created through the generosity of philanthropists dedicated to improving the lives of patients and advancing scientific discovery. Endowed chairs provide stable, long-term support that allows leading investigators to pursue bold research directions and develop high-impact clinical programs.
Being appointed to this chair signifies exceptional achievement and scientific leadership. It recognizes not only past accomplishments but also the potential for continued contributions that will elevate cancer research and patient care. With this honor, Dr. Janjigian joins an esteemed group of MSK physician–scientists whose work has fundamentally influenced the field of oncology.
Highlights from the Reception
During the reception, MSK leaders and colleagues reflected on Dr. Janjigian’s extraordinary influence on gastrointestinal oncology. The event emphasized her pivotal role in transforming the therapeutic landscape for gastric and esophageal cancers and her dedication to translating scientific knowledge into therapies that meaningfully improve patient outcomes.
Speakers underscored her reputation as a visionary leader whose clinical trials have set new standards, her ability to build multidisciplinary collaborations, and her commitment to diversity, mentorship, and scientific excellence. They also acknowledged the enduring legacy of Carroll and Milton Petrie, whose philanthropy continues to strengthen MSK’s mission and empower groundbreaking research.
Dr. Janjigian’s Vision for the Future
In her remarks, Dr. Janjigian highlighted the importance of collaboration, innovation, and translational research as drivers of progress in gastrointestinal oncology. She expressed her commitment to accelerating the development of therapies that provide durable responses, expanding access to clinical trials, and deepening global research partnerships.
The support provided through the Carroll and Milton Petrie Chair will enhance her efforts to explore new immunotherapy combinations, identify biomarkers that guide personalized treatment, and develop strategies to overcome resistance in advanced cancers. Her vision reflects a continued dedication to improving outcomes and quality of life for patients worldwide.
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Looking Ahead
Dr. Yelena Janjigian’s appointment to the Endowed Carroll and Milton Petrie Chair marks a significant milestone in her ongoing mission to transform the landscape of gastrointestinal oncology. The recognition reflects her exceptional leadership, her enduring commitment to scientific rigor, and her ability to translate research insights into meaningful improvements in patient care.
As she steps into this new role, the endowed support will further empower her to pursue ambitious research initiatives, strengthen global collaborations, and continue shaping future standards of treatment for patients with gastric and esophageal cancers. Her work stands as a testament to the profound impact that visionary clinician–scientists can make in modern oncology, and the Petrie Chair will serve as a catalyst for even greater innovation in the years ahead.
Written by Nare Hovhannisyan, MD