Peter Nelson

Peter Nelson, MD is a prominent Professor at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center with multiple appointments across divisions including Human Biology, Clinical Research, and Public Health Sciences. He serves as Vice President of Precision Oncology and Director of the Stuart and Molly Sloan Precision Oncology Institute at Fred Hutch. Additionally, he holds a Professor position in Medical Oncology at the University of Washington School of Medicine and is an Adjunct Professor in Genome Sciences and Pathology.

• Vice President, Precision Oncology, Fred Hutch
• Director, Stuart and Molly Sloan Precision Oncology Institute
• Professor, Human Biology Division
• Stuart and Molly Sloan Precision Oncology Institute Endowed Chair
• Professor, Clinical Research Division
• Professor, Public Health Sciences Division
• Professor, Medical Oncology, University of Washington
• Genitourinary Oncology Clinical Research Director
• Adjunct Professor, Genome Sciences and Pathology
• Principal Investigator, Pacific Northwest Prostate Cancer SPORE

Dr. Nelson's research focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms of prostate cancer initiation and progression. His work spans cancer genomics, hormonal carcinogenesis, tumor microenvironment, and precision oncology strategies. Specifically, he investigates gene expression variability, the androgen receptor pathway, tumor microenvironment interactions, and molecular subtypes of prostate cancer to develop diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic approaches. His lab has identified promising biomarker candidates that could differentiate aggressive from indolent prostate cancers.

Analysis of Dr. Nelson's recent publications reveals a strong emphasis on molecular subtyping of prostate cancer, with particular focus on DNA repair defects (BRCA1/2, mismatch repair), androgen receptor signaling mechanisms, and the role of the tumor microenvironment in therapy resistance. His work bridges genomic discoveries with clinical applications, particularly in identifying biomarkers for targeted therapies and developing precision oncology approaches for personalized prostate cancer treatment.

• Stuart and Molly Sloan Precision Oncology Institute Endowed Chair
• Principal Investigator, Pacific Northwest Prostate Cancer SPORE
• Kuni Foundation award for adult oncology research ($7M)
• Leadership in TakePART-NW precision oncology research program

Dr. Nelson leads the Nelson Lab which focuses on prostate cancer as a model for understanding cancer heterogeneity and developing personalized approaches to oncology care. His research spans multiple areas including precision oncology, androgen receptor signaling, tumor microenvironment, new therapeutics, and cancer predisposition. The lab utilizes unique models including patient-derived xenografts and organoids to identify synergistic drug combinations capable of producing complete responses in prostate cancer. Dr. Nelson also oversees the Pacific Northwest Prostate Cancer SPORE, a multicenter research consortium that has driven significant advances in prostate cancer understanding and treatment over the past 25 years.