Tanya M. Trippett, MD

I have a background in molecular pharmacology and translational research, especially studies of the molecular mechanisms of drug resistance. I believe that understanding the fundamental biology of cancer is vital to our ability to improve cancer treatment. The work we’ve done in the laboratory and its translation to improve the treatment of lymphoma is now being applied to the care of children with diverse types of cancer. This is very satisfying for me and serves as a tribute to the patients we’ve treated. Research enables us to provide options to patients when none are available, giving patients and parents hope.

I previously served on the national level in the Children’s Oncology Group, where I served as Chairperson of the Hodgkin’s Biology Committee and Vice Chair of the Hodgkin’s Disease Committee for 12 years. I also teach and mentor fellows who have gone on to start their own research programs.

I am the Co-Founder of Pediatric Oncology Experimental Therapeutics Investigator Consortium (POETIC), a collaboration between multiple centers around the country, whose mission is the development of biologically targeted therapies for cancers that have recurred in children. I started POETIC in February 2003 to increase patients’ access to promising new agents in clinical trials. I served as Director of the POETIC Coordinating Center at Memorial Sloan Kettering, the only POETIC center in New York City from inception to 2019.

I am now pursuing a broader interest in global disparities in cancer care for children in limited resource nations outside the United States for which I have developed a new initiative under the Global Disparities Program at MSK. I am leading a team of professionals to build a children’s cancer center in Ghana. I formed a charitable humanitarian organization to help with this initiative.

It is very gratifying when I see patients conquer cancer and go on to do well. I understand how critical research is to advancing the treatment of cancer, and it is rewarding to know that the investigations I am leading may save the life of a child.

• Clinical Expertise: Pediatric Oncology; Hodgkin and Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma; Leukemias; New Investigational Agents; Drug Resistance
• Awards and Honors: Castle Connolly: New York Magazine Top Doctors (2013-2018)
• Languages Spoken: English
• Education: MD, Duke University School of Medicine
• Residencies: Pediatrics - Duke University Medical Center
• Fellowships: Pediatric Hematology/Oncology - Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
• Board Certifications: Pediatrics; Pediatric Hematology-Oncology