The Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy (PICI) announced the appointment of Karen E. Knudsen, MBA, PhD, as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO). A visionary leader in oncology, health-care delivery, scientific innovation, and strategic transformation, Dr. Knudsen joins PICI at a pivotal time and brings significant expertise in converting scientific discoveries into real-world benefit for patients with cancer. As CEO, Dr. Knudsen will work closely with PICI’s Board of Directors, existing leadership team, and PICI Network researchers.
Karen E. Knudsen, MBA, PhD
“For nearly a decade, PICI has been at the forefront of transforming cancer treatment through the power of immunotherapy—reshaping what is possible in the fight against this disease. But there is more to be done, particularly at this critical time. I believe the institute’s bold, unique model and long-term commitment to catalyzing innovations into clinical testing and near-term patient benefits are exactly the type of support needed to drive continued progress against cancer. This is all the more critical despite the current funding climate,” stated Dr. Knudsen. “I am honored to lead this extraordinary team of scientists, research institutions, and industry leaders as we push the boundaries and speed of innovation even further. Together, we will accelerate the development of life-saving therapies, expand the reach of PICI’s impact, and bring the vision of turning all cancers into curable diseases to reality.”
Dr. Knudsen most recently served as CEO of the American Cancer Society (ACS) and ACS Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN), where she led both organizations through a period of transformative growth, significantly expanding research investments, advocacy reach, and direct patient support initiatives. Under her leadership, ACS evolved into a unified, high-performing enterprise, increasing revenue by more than 30%. Moreover, Dr. Knudsen developed and scaled innovative programs that included joint ventures and an impact innovation arm to accelerate progress against cancer.
Prior to her time at the ACS, Dr. Knudsen served as Executive Vice President of Oncology Services at Jefferson Health and Enterprise Director of the Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center. A globally recognized expert in prostate cancer, she has authored more than 200 scientific publications. Dr. Knudsen has held leadership roles with the National Cancer Institute Board of Scientific Advisors, the Association of American Cancer Institutes, and the American Association for Cancer Research.
