Nevena Damjanov

Dr. Nevena Damjanov serves as Clinical Professor of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Section Chief of Hematology/Oncology at the Philadelphia VA Medical Center, and Director of Gastrointestinal Oncology at Abramson Cancer Center, Penn Presbyterian Medical Center. She maintains active hospital privileges at both Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania and Penn Presbyterian Medical Center, specializing in gastrointestinal malignancies for patients aged 18+ with exceptional patient satisfaction ratings (4.9/5.0 from 102 reviews).

Her training includes:

• Medical School: Drexel University Center City Hahnemann Campus
• Residency: Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center
• Fellowships: Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania and University Hospitals Case Medical Center

Dr. Damjanov's research pioneers the integration of precision oncology with pragmatic healthcare delivery. She leads groundbreaking work in pharmacogenomic implementation (DPYD/UGT1A1 testing to prevent chemotherapy toxicity), molecular resistance mechanisms in cholangiocarcinoma, and innovative clinical trial designs for pancreatic and liver cancers. Her approach emphasizes rapid translation of genomic discoveries into clinical workflows with measurable safety outcomes.

Analysis of her 2022-2025 publications reveals a strategic focus on overcoming treatment barriers in gastrointestinal oncology. Key trends include biomarker-driven clinical trials (e.g., FGFR inhibitor resistance mechanisms), pragmatic implementation science for pharmacogenomics, and health equity initiatives targeting underserved populations. Her work consistently bridges molecular research with real-world clinical applicability.

While specific awards aren't detailed in source materials, her leadership is evidenced by high-impact publications in journals like Annals of Oncology and Journal of Clinical Oncology, exceptional patient satisfaction metrics, and prominent roles directing institutional programs. Her work receives recognition through sustained publication in top-tier oncology venues.

Dr. Damjanov actively mentors trainees through Penn's Hematology-Oncology fellowship and VA pathways, with current supervision focused on pharmacogenomics implementation projects and GI cancer clinical trials. Her research program is supported by multiple active grants including the qTACE trial for hepatocellular carcinoma and multi-institutional pragmatic trials for genomic-guided chemotherapy dosing.

As Director of Gastrointestinal Oncology, she leads a multidisciplinary team integrating medical oncology, interventional radiology, surgery, and genetics at Abramson Cancer Center. Her program emphasizes collaborative care models that incorporate genomic testing, novel therapeutics, and health services research to optimize outcomes across the cancer continuum.