GET TO KNOW YOUR LEADERSHIP
Jason Akulian, MD, FCCP
Read through a Q&A with one of the CHEST Network leaders, Jason Akulian, MD, FCCP, Thoracic Oncology and Chest Procedures Network Chair.
July 18, 2023
Where do you work?
I work at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill as an Associate Professor of Medicine. GO HEELS!
What are your research interests and how does this apply to your position within the Networks?
My research interests include both the early detection and diagnosis of lung cancer and advanced lung cancer tumor-immune biology. These interests drive the questions that my collaborators and I are asking as we work toward a cure for lung cancer. The CHEST Thoracic Oncology and Chest Procedures Network is a wonderful forum to work with outstanding members of the medical community at a national level and gives us the opportunity to elevate topics important in the field.
How did you become interested and involved in the Thoracic Oncology and Chest Procedures Network?
The Thoracic Oncology and Chest Procedures Network was a natural fit early in my career as its scope was both narrow and broad enough to incorporate my interests. I got involved by attending Network meetings, applying for Network positions, and leaning into the topic with my colleagues.
Are you involved in any other activities or volunteer positions at CHEST?
I serve on the CHEST 2023 Program Committee.
What clinical research is most interesting to you right now?
There is an incredible depth and breadth of clinical research ongoing. Extremely interesting to me is the move toward comparative effectiveness device trials in the lung cancer space. This is closely followed by the growing body of research evaluating novel neoadjuvant and adjuvant approaches to the treatment of lung cancer.
What are your hobbies?
I love to travel, scuba dive, spend time with my family, and make wine with my father.
What is something you cannot live without (after family and friends)?
Tough question! But, most of all, it is a close group of colleagues with whom I can collaborate with around a shared set of visions.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with your Network peers?
Just that this is a great time to get engaged! Since the restructuring of the Networks in 2022, there are even more opportunities to be involved.
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