Dr. Igor Puzanov

Dr. Igor Puzanov, MD, is a nationally respected medical oncologist and physician-scientist specializing in melanoma, skin cancers, and the development of early-phase cancer therapeutics. He is Chief of Melanoma and Director of the Center for Early Phase Clinical Trials at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, where he also functions as Senior Vice President of Clinical Investigation. Dr. Puzanov received his medical degree from Charles University in Prague and completed residency in internal medicine at State University of New York at Buffalo, followed by a fellowship in hematology and oncology at Vanderbilt University. Board-certified in internal medicine and medical oncology, he provides expert care to patients with advanced solid tumors and cutaneous malignancies.

Widely recognized for his pioneering work in immuno-oncology, Dr. Puzanov has led numerous first-in-human and early-phase clinical trials involving immune checkpoint inhibitors, targeted therapies, and novel combination regimens. His research has played a central role in advancing the use of immunotherapies across multiple cancer types, with several studies contributing to FDA approvals. He has published extensively in leading journals including The New England Journal of Medicine, Nature Medicine, and Journal of Clinical Oncology, and continues to direct innovative studies that shape the future of precision medicine.

Beyond his clinical and research expertise, Dr. Puzanov is an influential figure in the oncology community. He serves on national committees, contributes to multicenter clinical trial networks, and mentors emerging investigators in translational research. A frequent invited speaker at international oncology conferences, he is committed to improving cancer outcomes through evidence-based, patient-centered care. Through his integrated approach to discovery and treatment, Dr. Puzanov is helping redefine therapeutic possibilities in melanoma and immunotherapy.