Dr. Howard S. Hochster

Dr. Howard S. Hochster, MD, FACP, is a highly regarded medical oncologist and clinical trial expert, widely recognized for his leadership in gastrointestinal cancer research and drug development. He is Associate Director for Clinical Research at Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey and Director of Oncology Research at RWJBarnabas Health. Dr. Hochster earned his medical degree from Yale University School of Medicine, followed by internal medicine residency and medical oncology fellowship at Bellevue Hospital and NYU Medical Center. He is board-certified in internal medicine and medical oncology and provides expert care in colorectal, gastric, pancreatic, and hepatobiliary cancers.

A nationally recognized innovator in clinical and translational oncology, Dr. Hochster has led numerous pivotal trials that have resulted in FDA approvals for targeted therapies and immunotherapies in gastrointestinal cancers. His work focuses on biomarker-driven precision medicine, novel chemotherapy combinations, and early-phase drug development. He has served as a key investigator in the NCI's GI Cancer Steering Committee and has been a principal architect of the national GI cancer trial portfolio. With over 200 peer-reviewed publications and extensive involvement in cooperative group leadership, Dr. Hochster is a driving force in expanding access to cutting-edge therapies through clinical trials.

Beyond his clinical and research impact, Dr. Hochster is a devoted educator and mentor, having trained generations of oncologists in academic and community settings. He holds professorial appointments at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School and plays a central role in advancing statewide cancer care initiatives. His contributions to oncology have earned him fellow status in the American College of Physicians and numerous accolades for excellence in research and education. Through his dedication to scientific advancement and patient-centered care, Dr. Hochster continues to shape the future of gastrointestinal cancer treatment and clinical research.