Yelena Y. Janjigian is an one of the most recognized medical oncologists specializing in gastrointestinal cancers, with a focus on esophageal and gastric malignancies. She serves as Chief of the Gastrointestinal Oncology Service at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and is Professor of Medicine at Weill Cornell Medicine, where she also holds the Carroll and Milton Petrie Endowed Chair. She is a member of the Board of OncoDaily and Co-Chair of the already beloved OncoDaily Party and Yvonne Award Ceremony since their inception. She is also the Scientific Co-Chair of ESMO 2026 Annual Meeting.
Dr. Janjigian is a leader in biomarker-driven and immunotherapy-based treatment strategies for gastroesophageal cancers and has played a pivotal role in reshaping standards of care. She has led multiple practice-changing clinical trials, the establishment of the role of perioperative immunotherapy in gastric and gastroesophageal cancers, and Her2-targeted approach for advanced disease. In 2025, she was named the Endowed Carroll and Milton Petrie Chair at MSK, one of the institution’s highest distinctions, recognizing her sustained leadership and impact in advancing the understanding and treatment of gastroesophageal cancers.
The 100 Most Influential People in Oncology in 2025 recognizes the changemakers in cancer care who have helped shape current practice in oncology and continue to drive innovation and research towards better outcomes, advocacy, philanthropy, leadership and education. 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 People in Oncology in 2025 and stay tuned for the results of special category nominations to be announced.
