Wendy A. Allen-Rhoades

Dr. Wendy A. Allen-Rhoades is a dual-degree physician-scientist (MD, PhD) specializing in pediatric oncology at Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center and Mayo Clinic Children's in Rochester, Minnesota. She holds an academic appointment through Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science in the Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine with a specialty focus in Pediatric Hematology/Oncology. Her clinical expertise centers on sarcomas and adolescent/young adult oncology, with particular emphasis on building infrastructure to support cancer survivorship for this unique population.

Dr. Allen-Rhoades' research spans multiple critical areas in pediatric oncology, with three primary foci:

• Sarcoma Research - particularly osteosarcoma and rhabdomyosarcoma, where she investigates molecular biomarkers including plasma microRNA signatures for diagnosis, treatment monitoring, and prognosis
• Fertility Preservation - examining access to and quality of fertility preservation resources for pediatric cancer patients, with a focus on healthcare disparities
• Health Policy and Advocacy - working to improve healthcare delivery and access for children and young adults with cancer

Her research has resulted in numerous high-impact publications in journals such as Cancer, Pediatric Blood & Cancer, and Journal of Adolescent and Young Adult Oncology.

Among her notable recognitions:

• 2020 Advocacy Champion from American Society of Clinical Oncology's Senator's Club
• 2019 Health Policy Fellowship and Leadership Development Program participation from ASCO
• 2015 Paul Calabresi Scholar award
• 2013 Young Investigator Award (Sarcoma Award) from ASCO
• 2012 St. Baldrick's Foundation Fellow

Dr. Allen-Rhoades maintains active roles in multiple national organizations and committees that shape pediatric cancer care, including serving as Vice Chair of the Advocacy Committee for North America in the International Society of Pediatric Oncology and as a member of the Pediatric Rhabdomyosarcoma Guideline Committee for the National Comprehensive Cancer Network. She chairs the ARST:2031 clinical trial for high-risk rhabdomyosarcoma through the Children's Oncology Group and continues to advance research at the intersection of cancer treatment, survivorship, and fertility preservation for young patients.