Janet M. Bruner

Janet M. Bruner, MD, is a full Professor in the Department of Pathology at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, with a joint appointment in the Department of Neuro-oncology since 1994. She joined MD Anderson in 1984 as a faculty associate and was promoted to Assistant Professor in 1985. Dr. Bruner served as Chair of the Department of Pathology from 1998 to 2010, becoming the first woman to hold a clinical department chair position at MD Anderson. She also holds the role of Deputy Head of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine since 1998.

Her clinical and research interests focus on brain tumor neuropathology, molecular diagnostics, and molecular genetics. She played a pivotal role in establishing the MD Anderson Neuropathology Laboratory and the MD Anderson Tissue Bank, advancing translational research and diagnostic capabilities. Dr. Bruner has been a leader in promoting subspecialization within pathology and fostering women’s leadership in academic medicine.

Her administrative philosophy emphasizes collaboration and innovation, reflecting her dual expertise as a clinician-scientist and administrator. Key contributions include expanding the Department of Pathology, navigating financial and cultural challenges at MD Anderson, and advocating for interdisciplinary approaches in healthcare.

Labs/Teams: Director of the MD Anderson Neuropathology Laboratory and co-founder of the MD Anderson Tissue Bank.