Michael Nolan

Michael Nolan, DVM, PhD, DACVR is a Professor of Radiation Oncology in the Department of Clinical Sciences at North Carolina State University's College of Veterinary Medicine. He is also a member of the UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center. Dr. Nolan is board-certified in veterinary radiology (DACVR) and holds a PhD in radiation and cancer biology.

His research focuses on the complex intersection of cancer and neurobiology, with particular emphasis on the peripheral nervous system and pain signaling in the context of head and neck cancer. As the 2024 Randall B. Terry, Jr. Distinguished Professor of Oncology at NC State College of Veterinary Medicine, his work bridges veterinary and human medicine through comparative oncology approaches.

Dr. Nolan's recent research has centered on stereotactic radiation therapy applications for various cancers in companion animals, including nasal tumors, brain tumors, and oral melanoma. His work demonstrates how advanced radiation techniques can improve tumor control while minimizing side effects in veterinary patients. He collaborates with institutions like Duke University through the Consortium for Canine Comparative Oncology to explore new cancer therapies with potential applications for both animals and humans.

His laboratory investigates molecular mechanisms of radiation response, particularly examining how cancer/neuron interactions influence pain signaling and tumor progression. This research has implications for improving pain management in cancer patients while potentially enhancing treatment efficacy.

Dr. Nolan has received recognition for his contributions to veterinary radiation oncology, most notably the 2024 Randall B. Terry, Jr. Distinguished Professorship. His work has advanced the field of veterinary radiation oncology through numerous publications on stereotactic radiation therapy protocols, radiation-induced pain mechanisms, and comparative cancer models.

He is actively involved in clinical care, utilizing cutting-edge technology including the Varian Novalis TX linear accelerator with a Protura six-degrees-of-freedom treatment couch to deliver precise radiation treatments to animal patients. His clinical work focuses on delivering radiation via photons or electrons using both traditional and advanced techniques including stereotactic radiation therapy (SRT) and intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT).