By Rachana Senthil
On Wednesday, Sept. 10, the appointment of Ronald J. Buckanovich, professor of medicine, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, and codirector of Women’s Cancer Research Center, UPMC, as Professor of Immunotherapy, School of Medicine, supported by the Pittsburgh Foundation, was announced.
“Endowed chairs are among the most meaningful investments we can make in academic medicine,” said Anne Marie Lennon, Jack D. Myers Professor of Internal Medicine and chair of the Department of Medicine, during the event. “They recognize excellence, provide resources to fuel discovery and create a lasting legacy that links philanthropy with progress. The Pittsburgh Foundation has once again shown its deep commitment to advancing science, medicine and, above all, the health of our patients.”
Buckanovich has made tremendous strides in developing effective therapeutic approaches for different cancers, particularly ovarian malignancies. His research is focused on studying therapy-resistant cancer cells that inactivate antitumor immune responses and stimulate cancer growth. His research is committed to exploring medical solutions that affect these cells to improve quality of life for ovarian cancer patients.
The Pittsburgh Foundation, a philanthropic organization dedicated to uplifting and serving the community through investments in scientific research, funded this position, continuing its longstanding tradition of supporting essential medical research.
For many years, The Pittsburgh Foundation has been one of the University’s most generous supporters, giving millions of dollars to back scientific advancement. The foundation has established 13 endowed chairs at Pitt, with six chairs focused on cancer research. These endowed positions provide permanent funding for faculty members, enabling them to pursue high-impact research with long-term stability.
Buckanovich’s new role honors his groundbreaking achievements and highlights the strong relationship between the University and The Pittsburgh Foundation.