Lee M. Ellis, MD, is the recipient of the 2022 AACR Daniel D. Von Hoff Award for Outstanding Contributions to Education and Training in Cancer Research. This award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the education and training of cancer scientists and physicians at any career level and in any area of cancer research.

Ellis is a professor in the Department of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Division of Surgery, at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Texas, where he also serves as the Ruben Distinguished Chair in Gastroenterology Cancer Research and executive director for Translational Research, Global Academic Programs, in the Department of Surgical Oncology, Division of Surgery; and professor in the Department of Molecular and Cellular Oncology. He is also vice chair of Translational Medicine at SWOG in Portland, Oregon.

Ellis was also recognized by the AACR for his pioneering research on the biology and therapy of metastatic colorectal cancer and for identifying VEGF as an important mediator of colorectal cancer angiogenesis, growth and survival, and a valid therapeutic target that is now standard of care for patients with such malignancies. In a news release, the AACR said, “Importantly, during his illustrious career, he has played a critical role in the training and education of a multitude of clinical fellows, laboratory investigators, clinical investigators, and junior faculty.”