Beyond Cancer Spotlight: Warren Chow

Warren Chow, MD (he/him), is the Clinical Professor for the Division of Hematology/Oncology and Medicine for the School of Medicine, and Associate Director for Clinical Sciences at the Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center.

1. What are your career/research interests? 

I am interested in developmental therapeutics and immunotherapeutics for sarcoma and melanoma.

2. How did your early life experiences shape your education and career choices? 

I took a course on cancer biology as an undergraduate. I did some basic research on the immune response of patient's with Hodgkin's Disease when I was in medical school. These formative experiences led me to medical oncology.

3. What brought you to UCI?

The opportunity to help lead the clinical research activities at the Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center.

4. How did you connect with others to build your own sense of community and belonging at work? 

Our shared investment in basic, translational, and clinical research within the Cancer Center, and our overall desire to improve cancer care for our patients.

5. What challenges have you experienced in your professional journey? 

Rejections of manuscripts and grant proposals are always difficult. However, these setbacks drive me harder to succeed. You have to have a "thick skin."

6. What personal or professional accomplishment are you most proud of? 

I led a nationwide trial of pazopanib for advanced, conventional chondrosarcoma, that led to its approval for its use by the National Comprehensive Cancer Center guidelines.

7. What are your interests/hobbies outside of work? 

I like to travel with my wife and family. We also like to snowboard together. I like to fish and golf with my friends.

8. What is a fun or random fact about you? 

I'm a diehard Los Angeles Clippers fan from the old LA Sports Arena days.

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