Surgeon and Cancer Researcher Kelly M. McMasters, MD, PhD, Celebrates the ‘Miracle of Translational Science’

In an in‑depth ASCO Post feature, surgical oncologist and researcher Kelly M. McMasters, Ben A. Reid, Sr. Professor and Chair of The Hiram C. Polk, Jr. MD Department of Surgery, reflects on more than 27 years of pioneering work in translational cancer science. As director of a long‑standing basic and translational research lab, McMasters has led major advances in adenovirus‑mediated cancer gene therapy and melanoma biomarker discovery, including serving as principal investigator of the landmark Sunbelt Melanoma Trial, which enrolled more than 3,500 patients across 79 institutions. His story also highlights his leadership across multiple national surgical organizations and the personal experiences that continue to shape his commitment to compassionate, research‑driven cancer care.