Dr. Taofeek K. Owonikoko

Dr. Taofeek K. Owonikoko, MD, PhD, MSCR, is a nationally recognized medical oncologist specializing in thoracic malignancies, with a particular focus on lung cancer and neuroendocrine tumors. He serves as Chief of the Division of Hematology/Oncology at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and Co-Leader of the Cancer Therapeutics Program at UPMC Hillman Cancer Center. Dr. Owonikoko earned his medical degree from Obafemi Awolowo University in Nigeria and a PhD in pharmacology from Heinrich Heine University in Düsseldorf, Germany. He completed his residency in internal medicine at the Albert Einstein Medical Center in Philadelphia and a fellowship in hematology/oncology at the University of Pittsburgh. He is board-certified in Internal Medicine, Hematology, and Medical Oncology, and is recognized for his expertise in translational research and innovative lung cancer therapeutics.

A leader in clinical and translational oncology, Dr. Owonikoko has conducted pivotal studies in immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and combination strategies for lung cancer. He has authored over 200 peer-reviewed publications and contributed to national clinical guidelines for thoracic oncology. His research has helped advance biomarker-driven approaches and precision treatment for patients with small cell and non-small cell lung cancers.

In addition to his research and clinical leadership, Dr. Owonikoko is a dedicated mentor and educator, training the next generation of oncologists and physician-scientists. He serves on committees for the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), the International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer (IASLC), and the National Cancer Institute (NCI). Through his commitment to translational research, innovative clinical trials, and mentorship, Dr. Taofeek Owonikoko continues to advance the field of thoracic oncology and improve patient outcomes worldwide.