Dr. Zihai Li, MD, PhD, is an internationally recognized physician-scientist specializing in tumor immunology and translational cancer research. He serves as the founding Director of the Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute, where he also holds the Klotz Chair in Cancer Research. Dr. Li earned his medical degree from Zhengzhou University in China and a PhD in microbiology and immunology from the University of Miami. He completed postdoctoral training in tumor immunology at the University of Michigan.
Dr. Li is a pioneer in the study of heat shock proteins and antigen presentation in cancer immunity. His research has advanced understanding of how immune tolerance is regulated within the tumor microenvironment, leading to new approaches for cancer immunotherapy. He has authored more than 200 peer-reviewed publications and his work has been recognized globally for its innovation and clinical relevance.
In addition to his research leadership, Dr. Li has held prominent roles at institutions including the Medical University of South Carolina and has served on advisory committees for national and international cancer research organizations. He is also a dedicated mentor, training numerous fellows and junior faculty who have gone on to successful independent careers. Through his groundbreaking research and leadership, Dr. Zihai Li continues to shape the global field of cancer immunology and immunotherapy.