Dr. David R. Gandara

Dr. David R. Gandara, MD, is an internationally respected medical oncologist specializing in thoracic oncology at UC Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center, where he serves as Professor Emeritus and Director of the Thoracic Oncology Program. He previously held the position of Associate Director for Experimental Therapeutics and played a key role in the development of clinical research initiatives across the institution. Dr. Gandara earned his medical degree from the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School and completed his residency and fellowship training at the Naval Regional Medical Center and the University of California, Davis. Board-certified in Internal Medicine and Medical Oncology, he brings decades of expertise in lung cancer, mesothelioma, and early-phase clinical trial design to his ongoing leadership in cancer care and research.

With a career spanning over 30 years, Dr. Gandara is widely known for advancing translational and clinical research in lung cancer. He has served as principal investigator for numerous national and international trials exploring novel therapeutics, biomarker-driven treatments, and precision oncology strategies. His work has led to significant developments in targeted therapy and immunotherapy for non-small cell lung cancer. As a founding member and past chair of the Southwest Oncology Group (SWOG) Lung Committee, he has played a pivotal role in setting research agendas for lung cancer studies in the U.S. Dr. Gandara’s prolific publication record includes over 400 scientific papers, and he has been instrumental in shaping practice-changing clinical guidelines.

In addition to his research leadership, Dr. Gandara serves on editorial boards and advisory panels for major oncology organizations, including ASCO, AACR, and the International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer. He has received multiple lifetime achievement awards for his contributions to thoracic oncology and continues to mentor early-career clinicians and investigators in the field. Through his sustained commitment to innovative research, clinical excellence, and academic mentorship, Dr. Gandara is regarded as a foundational figure in the evolution of lung cancer treatment and a key architect of modern thoracic oncology.