Neil E. Kay

Neil E. Kay, M.D., is a Professor of Medicine at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, where he serves as a Consultant in the Division of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, with a joint appointment in the Department of Immunology. His research is focused on chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), particularly its biological and clinical heterogeneity, tumor microenvironment, B-cell signaling, and genomic evolution.

• Primary Appointment: Consultant, Division of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine
• Joint Appointment: Consultant, Department of Immunology
• Academic Rank: Professor of Medicine
• Location: Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN

Dr. Kay has established a nationally recognized CLL tissue bank and clinical database that supports extensive translational and basic research. He collaborates with leading scientists at Mayo Clinic and beyond, including experts in immunology, pathology, epidemiology, and biostatistics.

His research interests include:

• B-chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL)
• Tumor microenvironment and stromal interactions
• B-cell biology and signaling
• Genomic and epigenomic analysis of CLL clones
• Clonal evolution and risk stratification
• Development of novel therapies and clinical trials

Recent publications reveal a strong focus on genomic characterization of CLL, particularly in underrepresented populations, mechanisms of therapy resistance, Richter transformation, and innovative approaches such as CAR-T cell modulation. His work increasingly integrates whole-genome sequencing, epidemiological data, and clinical trial outcomes to improve patient prognosis and personalize treatment.

Scientific awards and leadership roles include:

• Member, Leukemia Steering Committee, National Cancer Institute
• Chairman, CLL Steering Committee, National Cancer Institute
• Member, Leukemia Core Committee, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group
• Member, External Advisory Group (CLL), MD Anderson Cancer Center
• Section Editor, Leukemia

Dr. Kay leads multiple active research grants from the National Cancer Institute and U.S. Army, focusing on predicting clinical outcomes and enhancing CAR-T cell safety. He has mentored numerous researchers and contributed over 500 peer-reviewed publications. His work is central to advancing understanding and treatment of CLL, with a vision toward curative strategies.

He is involved in several laboratories and research programs at Mayo Clinic, including the Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center, the Developmental Therapeutics Program, and collaborative networks such as the Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group and the CLL Working Group at the National Cancer Institute.