James Lee

James Lee is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Radiation Oncology at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF). He is also affiliated with the Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology-Oncology, and is a member of the Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center and the Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy (PICI).

Research and Clinical Focus

Dr. Lee is a physician-scientist specializing in immuno-oncology, particularly focusing on the mechanisms of resistance to cancer immunotherapy. His research aims to develop next-generation immunotherapeutics that can effectively treat advanced-stage cancers, especially those with challenging metastatic conditions such as liver and bone metastases. He has contributed significantly to the preclinical and clinical testing of CAR T cell therapies, which have led to FDA-approved treatments for certain types of leukemia and lymphomas.

His laboratory employs innovative approaches, including the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning, to analyze immune cell behavior in the tumor microenvironment, thereby enhancing the understanding of therapeutic resistance in metastatic cancers.123

Education and Training

Dr. Lee received his medical degree from Yale University and has trained under several pioneers in the field of immunotherapy. His extensive background includes working in labs that focus on developing and testing immunotherapy strategies, which has equipped him with the skills necessary to lead his own research initiatives at UCSF.145

Personal Interests

Outside of his professional endeavors, Dr. Lee enjoys activities such as tennis, rock climbing, surfing, and watching movies, reflecting a well-rounded personality that balances his intense scientific career with personal hobbies.1