The Neuroendocrine Tumor Research Foundation (NETRF) is pleased to share an important leadership transition within our Board of Scientific Advisors (BOSA), a group of distinguished experts who help guide NETRF’s research strategy, strengthen our grantmaking, and keep scientific rigor and patient impact at the center of everything we do.
With deep gratitude to Chrissie Thirlwell, MD, PhD
As of January 1, 2026, Chrissie Thirlwell, MD, PhD, has stepped down as Co-Chair of NETRF’s BOSA, and we are grateful to share that she will continue serving as a member of the BOSA. Since joining the BOSA in 2016, and especially since becoming Co-Chair in January 2022, Prof. Thirlwell has brought exceptional thoughtfulness, scientific insight, and steady leadership that has helped advance NETRF’s mission.
Prof. Thirlwell is Head of Bristol Medical School at the University of Bristol, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, and a Consultant Medical Oncologist in the UK, with a career dedicated to advancing neuroendocrine cancer research and patient care. We are deeply thankful for her many contributions and proud that our community will continue to benefit from her expertise through her ongoing service on the BOSA.
Continuing leadership: Dawn Quelle, PhD
We are delighted that Dawn Quelle, PhD, will continue as Chair of NETRF’s BOSA. Dr. Quelle’s leadership has strengthened the BOSA’s work in shaping NETRF’s scientific direction and ensuring that our research investments are guided by rigorous review and a clear focus on impact for the neuroendocrine cancer community. Dr. Quelle is a Professor of Neuroscience and Pharmacology and the Leader of the Cancer Genes and Pathways Program at the Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine.
Welcoming Daniel Halperin, MD as Vice Chair
We are also excited to share that Daniel Halperin, MD, will become Vice Chair of the BOSA. Dr. Halperin brings deep clinical expertise, a strong commitment to advancing neuroendocrine cancer care and research, and an energy that will help propel our scientific efforts forward. He is a medical oncologist at Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University and an Associate Professor and Vice Chair of Clinical Affairs in Emory’s Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology. We are thrilled to welcome him into this leadership role as we continue building momentum for progress in neuroendocrine cancer research.
Looking ahead
NETRF is proud of the strength and continuity of scientific leadership on the BOSA. With Dr. Quelle continuing as Chair, Dr. Halperin stepping into the Vice Chair role, and Prof. Thirlwell remaining on the Board, we are well-positioned to keep moving the field forward—funding outstanding science and accelerating progress for everyone affected by neuroendocrine cancer.
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