In this special episode of OncoInfluencers, hosted by Dr. Gevorg Tamamyan, we are honored to welcome Dr. Levi Garraway, one of the most influential figures in modern oncology and the Chief Medical Officer and Head of Global Product Development at Roche. From growing up with a passion for science to co-founding Foundation Medicine and shaping the era of precision oncology, Dr. Garraway shares the pivotal moments that defined his journey.
The discussion touches on:
- The vision and founding story of Foundation Medicine
- How genomic breakthroughs have revolutionized cancer treatment
- His evolution from academic researcher to pharma executive
- The power of mentorship, diverse leadership, and inclusion in healthcare
- Advice for the next generation of oncology leaders
- 00:00 Introduction
- 00:33 Welcoming Dr. Levi Garraway
- 01:06 Influence of Philipp Kantoff and early mentorship
- 01:32 Family’s role in shaping academic and professional values
- 03:00 How his father’s cancer diagnosis led to a career in oncology
- 04:39 Pioneering cancer genomics and early career breakthroughs
- 07:01 Birth of Foundation Medicine and the “actionable genome”
- 07:31 Overcoming a near-failed clinical trial project
- 09:39 What inspires Dr. Garraway today
- 11:30 Hopes for his legacy in oncology
- 12:01 Foundation Medicine’s origin story and development
- 15:12 Biggest challenges in global cancer care today
- 17:14 How Roche approaches oncology innovation differently
- 19:27 Reflecting on mentors and mentees
- 22:06 Advice to the younger generation in oncology
- 23:42 Book recommendations that shaped his leadership
- 25:13 If not medicine, what else?
- 25:31 Who should be interviewed next
- 26:25 Why drug development, despite setbacks, is worth it