Welcome to the website of the Department of Oncology at Wayne State University School of Medicine.

In March of 2010, the Board of Governors of Wayne State University established the Department of Oncology in the School of Medicine as the academic home of basic, population, and clinical scientists with a primary focus in oncology. The Department uniquely integrates basic research, clinical research, translational research, epidemiological research and behavioral research. Its mission is to contribute to the prevention and treatment of cancer with the ultimate goal of eradicating cancer.

In conjunction with the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, we bring together clinicians, other health professionals and researchers to enhance our understanding of the causes of cancer, to develop strategies to prevent cancer, and to diagnose and treat patients with cancer. We are committed to advancing our understanding of cancer and translating this learning into new diagnostics and therapies to help cancer patients. Together, we share a passion for a future where cancer has been beaten and offer an extraordinary opportunity to explore the spectrum of cancer in a comprehensive manner, and in a way that will measurably improve the quality and duration of life for people with cancer.

The Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute is one of 41 National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer centers in the United States. The designation was achieved in 1978. 

Our work is not done alone. Wayne State University and Karmanos have more than 700 cancer-specific scientific investigation programs and clinical trials. We encourage, facilitate and support the creation and operation of teams and groups that share this vision and work with other organizations and departments at WSU and Karmanos to foster these activities.

Together we are committed to educating the next generation of physicians and scientists. We support the continuing professional learning needs of practicing physicians to enhance their ability to care for the increasing number of patients who have cancer. Our graduate programs offer an educational and research approach to help our students develop the skills necessary to navigate in an increasingly complex world.