Andrew Kung, MD, PhD

Cancer is a frightening diagnosis and is always devastating when it occurs in a young person. Because childhood cancers are rare, every child with cancer deserves to be treated in an academic medical center by a team with the experience and knowledge to ensure the best outcomes. It is my privilege to lead the dedicated faculty and staff of the Department of Pediatrics at MSK, which is one of the largest pediatric oncology programs in the world. Our approach takes advantage of the deep expertise of our clinical teams as well as our access to the latest scientific approaches. Our goal is not only to develop the best possible treatment plan for each patient’s individual disease but also to enhance the well-being of both the child and the child’s family. 

My research program seeks to bring cutting-edge technologies to the treatment of pediatric cancers. By comprehensively analyzing the DNA and RNA in cancer and normal cells, we can identify the exact changes that resulted in the development of cancer. We can use this information to better identify the molecular characteristics of the cancer and treat the disease. The knowledge gained in the course of caring for patients also helps drive discovery. My research is bidirectional — we take the latest scientific discoveries out of the laboratory to the patient, and in turn, the patient shows us the most important research to conduct in the lab.

As Chair, I am also responsible for advancing MSK’s mission to train the next generation of leaders in pediatric oncology as well as the physician-scientists who will develop the newest pioneering therapies. Graduates from our esteemed fellowship program work in hospitals and industry around the world, applying advanced knowledge and skills learned here. 

In all these pursuits, my primary focus is on the care and well-being of our young patients. It is a distinct honor and pleasure to work with colleagues who share this passion, and to work in an institution singularly focused on exceptional care for patients with cancer and blood disorders.