Statement on the departure of National Cancer Institute Director Dr. W. Kimryn Rathmell

Earlier today, W. Kimryn Rathmell, M.D., Ph.D., announced her decision to step down as the 17th Director of the National Cancer Institute (NCI). Dr. Rathmell, who assumed the role on December 18, 2023, following her nomination by President Biden, is stepping down in accordance with the transition requirements for presidential appointees.

During her tenure, Dr. Rathmell brought an unwavering focus to addressing the rising incidence of early-onset cancers, particularly among women. She launched the Early-Onset Cancer Initiative to unravel the underlying biological, social and environmental factors contributing to this alarming trend. This new initiative will bring increased focus and coordination to the research underway across the cancer community to address this pattern. By laying this critical foundation, Dr. Rathmell has ensured that these vital efforts to better understand and combat early-onset cancers will endure.

Dr. Rathmell also prioritized reducing inequities in cancer care. She charged an NCI advisory group with developing actionable recommendations to expand community capacity for cancer research and to enhance the delivery of high-quality care in underserved and rural communities. The group’s final report emphasized addressing disparities in cancer outcomes and provided a roadmap for achieving greater equity in cancer care.

Under her leadership, significant strides were made toward achieving the eight ambitious goals of the National Cancer Plan, with a personal and steadfast commitment to the next generation of researchers. A notable achievement during her directorship was the launch of PROSPECT-Lung, the first clinical trial initiated under NCI’s Clinical Trials Innovation Unit (CTIU). This initiative is transforming how clinical trials are designed and conducted, advancing innovative science while maintaining operational efficiency for high-priority research.

Dr. Rathmell’s collaborative spirit extended across NIH. She played a pivotal role in shaping NIH-wide health equity initiatives. She provided key insights into my signature initiative, the Communities Advancing Research Equity for Health initiative™, which aims to integrate clinical research with community-based primary care.

It has been an extraordinary privilege to work alongside Dr. Rathmell and witness her exceptional dedication, vision, and leadership. Her contributions to the NCI and to the broader field of cancer research during her short tenure will continue to inspire progress in the fight against cancer.

Monica M. Bertagnolli, M.D.
Director, National Institutes of Health