Karen Knudsen is Chief Executive Officer of the Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy (PICI), where she leads one of the world’s most influential collaborative networks in cancer immunotherapy. Appointed to guide PICI into its next phase, she is responsible for strengthening the institute’s strategic direction, governance, and execution across its multi-institutional model, which connects leading cancer centers to accelerate the development and clinical translation of immune-based therapies. Her leadership brings a system-level perspective focused on coordination, accountability, and maximizing the impact of collaborative immunotherapy research.
Since assuming the role, Knudsen has focused on aligning PICI’s scientific portfolio with clear translational and clinical priorities, strengthening integration across member institutions, and reinforcing mechanisms that support efficient collaboration, data sharing, and trial development. She brings to PICI deep experience spanning academic cancer center leadership, national research funding, patient services, and advocacy, including prior service as CEO of the American Cancer Society and as director of an NCI-designated cancer center. This background positions her to bridge discovery, clinical development, and policy, and to guide PICI’s evolution as a coordinated engine for immunotherapy innovation with direct patient impact.
The 100 CEOs featured here reflect the diversity and complexity of modern oncology leadership. In 2025, some lead the world’s largest cancer institutions; others guide specialized societies or emerging innovators. What unites them is responsibility: for millions of patients, for the integrity of science, and for the future direction of cancer care globally.
This list is not a celebration of power, but a recognition of stewardship, accountability, and impact – and of the leaders whose choices continue to shape the fight against cancer. For the many deserving individuals not mentioned in this list, we will continue to acknowledge, honor and elevate your voices in our daily publications from across the world.
See the full list of The 100 Influential CEOs in Oncology in 2025 and stay tuned for other special category nominations.
