Dr. Thomas J. Kipps

Dr. Thomas J. Kipps, MD, PhD, is a renowned physician-scientist and hematologist specializing in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and related blood cancers. He serves as the Evelyn and Edwin Tasch Chair in Cancer Research and Professor of Medicine at the University of California, San Diego (UC San Diego) Moores Cancer Center. In addition to his faculty roles, Dr. Kipps is Deputy Director of Research Operations and Director of the CLL Research Consortium and the Center for Novel Therapeutics. He earned his MD and PhD in Immunology from Harvard University and completed his residency and fellowship training in internal medicine, hematology, and genetics at Stanford University. He is board-certified in Hematology and Medical Oncology and is internationally regarded for his leadership in translational research and therapeutic innovation in hematologic malignancies.

A trailblazer in leukemia research, Dr. Kipps has led pioneering studies in the immunobiology and molecular genetics of CLL, helping define its biological underpinnings and therapeutic vulnerabilities. As Director of the NIH-funded Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia Research Consortium, he has driven collaborative research that has led to major advances in treatment strategies, including the development of targeted and immune-based therapies. Dr. Kipps has authored more than 300 peer-reviewed publications, and his work has been recognized with numerous awards from the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, the National Cancer Institute, and the Society of Hematologic Oncology.

In addition to his scientific contributions, Dr. Kipps is a respected educator and mentor. He has guided the training and development of numerous fellows, junior faculty, and translational researchers across disciplines. His commitment to personalized cancer care is reflected in his clinical work, where he integrates novel therapies and precision diagnostics to improve outcomes for patients with leukemia and related disorders. He is an active member of the American Society of Hematology, American Association for Cancer Research, and American Society of Clinical Oncology. Through his dedication to research excellence, clinical leadership, and mentorship, Dr. Kipps continues to shape the evolving landscape of hematologic oncology and patient-centered cancer care.