Shari Damast

Shari Damast, MD is a Professor of Therapeutic Radiology at Yale School of Medicine, serving as Vice Chair for Brachytherapy and Chief of the Gynecologic Radiotherapy Program. She specializes in radiation oncology for gynecologic malignancies, including cervical, uterine, and vulvar cancers, with a focus on brachytherapy and improving patient quality of life. Her work integrates modern techniques like image-guided radiation and addresses sexual health concerns post-treatment.

Education & Training:

• Residency in Radiation Oncology: Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (2011)
• Internship in Internal Medicine: Beth Israel Medical Center (2007)
• MD: Weill Cornell Medical College (2006)
• BS: Yale University (2002)

Research Interests:

Dr. Damast’s research emphasizes optimizing brachytherapy techniques, studying prognostic factors in endometrial and cervical cancers, and mitigating treatment side effects. Key topics include MLH1 promoter hypermethylation’s role in endometrial cancer outcomes, vaginal stenosis prevention, and patient-centered care innovations.

Publications Overview:

Her 15 most recent articles (2022–2024) focus on brachytherapy techniques, radiation dosimetry, genetic biomarkers in cancer prognosis, and clinical guidelines for vulvar and cervical cancers. They reflect a blend of translational and clinical research aimed at enhancing treatment efficacy and patient experience.

Awards & Recognition:

• Yale Cancer Center Award for Clinical Excellence (2021)
• ARRO Educator of the Year Award (2019–2020)
• YNHH/Smilow Cancer Hospital Luminary Award of Excellence (2019)
• ABR Volunteer Service Award (2019)

Grants & Mentorship:

Dr. Damast collaborates on multidisciplinary teams and leads initiatives to advance brachytherapy education. She mentors residents and fellows in radiation oncology, emphasizing patient-centered care and innovative techniques.

Labs & Affiliations:

She contributes to the Yale Cancer Center and directs the Gynecologic Radiotherapy Program, fostering a collaborative environment for clinical and translational research.