Jean L. Nakamura

Dr. Jean L. Nakamura is Professor and Vice-Chair in the Department of Radiation Oncology at UCSF, where she directs Faculty Development. Her clinical practice specializes in neuro-oncology, utilizing advanced radiosurgical techniques like Gamma Knife for brain and spinal tumors. A physician-scientist, she leads multidisciplinary research on cancer genetics and radiation-induced malignancies.

Education:

• AB in Biology, University of Chicago (1993)
• MD, Pritzker School of Medicine (1998)
• Residency in Radiation Oncology, UCSF (2003)

Research Focus: Dr. Nakamura investigates genetic mechanisms of tumorigenesis in glioma, nerve sheath tumors, and sarcomas. Her NIH-funded work explores cancer metabolism, radiation susceptibility, and the DHART SPORE program on hyperactive Ras-driven cancers. She collaborates globally through UCSF's Brain Tumor Center.

Publications: Her recent studies analyze radiation-induced mutational patterns in genetically engineered models and clinical cohorts, revealing insights into secondary malignancy risks.

Awards:

• Roentgen Research Award (2001, 2002)
• NIH Loan Repayment Award (2005)
• St. Baldrick’s Scholar Award (2012)
• Margolis Lifetime Teaching Award (2022)

Leadership: She oversees the Nakamura Lab, mentors faculty, and serves on national committees advancing radiation science. Her NCI SPORE grant focuses on translational research in radiation-associated cancers.