Karen Cheng

Karen Cheng, M.D., is an Assistant Clinical Professor in the Department of Radiation Oncology at City of Hope, with clinical practice sites in Riverside and San Bernardino, California. She is actively involved in clinical care and academic medicine, specializing in advanced radiation therapies including intensity-modulated, stereotactic, and brachytherapy techniques for cancers of the breast, cervix, brain, head and neck, and prostate.

Her educational background includes a Doctor of Medicine from Boston University School of Medicine (2015–2019) and a Bachelor of Science in Bioengineering from the University of California at Berkeley (2011–2015). She completed an internal medicine internship at North Shore University Hospital / LIJ Medical Center and a radiation oncology residency at USC/Los Angeles General Medical Center, where she served as chief resident.

Dr. Cheng’s research spans radiation oncology innovation, radiomics, AI in imaging, and health equity. Her recent publications focus on technical advancements in brachytherapy, hippocampal-sparing techniques, radiomics datasets, and patient understanding of radiation therapy in diverse populations. This reflects a strong trend toward integrating technology with patient-centered care and addressing disparities in oncology.

• American College of Radiation Oncology Excellence in Mentorship Award
• Keck School of Medicine DEI Leaders Scholarship
• Boston University School of Medicine Anne and David Mischel Cancer Research Award
• MassChallenge Startup Accelerator Finalist
• Clinton Global Initiative University Innovation Fund Awardee
• Multiple grants and leadership awards in innovation, diversity, and research

Dr. Cheng has been involved in numerous research projects and clinical initiatives, supported by grants from organizations such as the American Society of Clinical Oncology, Chinese American Medical Society, and Grand Challenges Canada. She has also participated in innovation competitions and hackathons, demonstrating a strong commitment to translational research and community impact. She is fluent in English, Mandarin, Taiwanese, and Spanish, enhancing her ability to serve diverse patient populations.

She contributes to academic knowledge through a robust publication record and participation in developing clinical trials at City of Hope, a renowned institution for cancer care and research.