We are one of the largest clinical research networks in the Gulf South
Advanced Early Phase Trials
Patients now have access to a broad portfolio of phase 1 and 2 trials, allowing patients to stay closer to home for these ground-breaking, novel therapies. Click here to view Early Phase Trials.
Molecular Tumor Boards
Our physicians collaborate with leading translational scientists at the forefront of modern molecular medicine to review the results of genetic sequencing, proteomics, and other advanced studies and create customized treatment plans based on the most up-to-date research and data.
Multidisciplinary Team and Support
Ochsner’s Precision Cancer Therapies Program provides an experienced staff including nurses, doctors, researchers, technicians, laboratory personnel, infusion staff, schedulers and a concierge, fully dedicated to our early phase trial cancer patients. Our team, along with dedicated labs and clinical space makes our program the most comprehensive of its type in the region.
A Legacy of Innovative and
Collaborative Cancer Care
FACT: In 1939, Dr. Alton Ochsner conducted research on pulmonary malignancy and the link between smoking and lung cancer.
The Precision Cancer Therapies Program, a multidisciplinary partnership between Ochsner and TGen, offers the region access to the latest in cancer therapeutics, research, and advanced diagnostics. This distinctive program makes Ochsner the clear choice for providing the very best cancer care available close to home.
Ochsner’s longstanding tradition of bringing physicians together to improve health outcomes continues today. The unique combination of patient care, research and education coupled with our multidisciplinary team sets our program apart.
Learn More
Watch this video to learn more about our early phase clinical trials program and the importance of bringing these trials to patients in our region.
To learn more about the Early Phase Trials being conducted at Ochsner, or if you have questions:
Our Team
Ochsner Precision Cancer Therapies Program Key Personnel
We provide the most advanced cancer care available and, at the same time, offer compassionate support to patients and their families.
Daniel Von Hoff, MD, FACP
Senior Consultant
Daniel D. Von Hoff, M.D., F.A.C.P. is currently Physician in Chief, Distinguished Professor Translational Research Division at TGen (Translational Genomics Research Institute) in Phoenix, Arizona.Dr. Von Hoff’s major interest is in the development of anticancer agents. He and his colleagues were involved in concept and development of many of the agents now use routinely in cancer care, including: mitoxantrone, fludarabine, paclitaxel, docetaxel, gemcitabine, irinotecan, nelarabine, capecitabine, lapatinib, vismodegib, nab-paclitaxel, nal-IRI, and others.
Marc Matrana, MD, MS
Deputy Medical Director, Ochsner Precision Cancer Therapies Program
Dr. Matrana focuses on treating patients with cancers of the genitourinary tract, as well as lung cancer, gastrointestinal cancer, and other malignancies and hematologic diseases. His groundbreaking research has led to numerous peer-reviewed articles, chapters and other publications in the field of genitourinary medical oncology. In addition to research and patient care, Dr. Matrana is an active medical educator.
Ron Korn, MD, PhD
Physician Strategist for Translational Medicine
Dr. Korn is a radiologist/nuclear medicine physician-scientist with extensive expertise in oncology imaging. He is the Medical Director of the Virginia G Piper Cancer Center in Arizona and serves as the Physician Engagement Strategist at TGen. In addition to his active role in drug development, he is a leader in the field of Radiogenomics, which combines imaging analysis with molecular profiling as a way to provide non-invasive information on tumor biology, early detection and treatment response.
Robert Ramirez, DO, FACP
Key Investigator
Dr. Ramirez has clinical and research interests in lung cancer, specifically non-small cell and small cell cancers as well as neuroendocrine tumors of the lung including DIPNECH, typical and atypical carcinoids. He has given multiple presentations at National and International meetings on the topics of lung cancer and neuroendocrine tumors and has multiple peer reviewed publications. He is active in clinical trial design as well as teaching to fellows, residents and medical students.
Julia Cook, PhD, FAHA
Director of Clinical Research - Oncology
Dr. Cook provides administrative oversight of staffing and operations for Ochsner Cancer Institute and the Precision Cancer Therapies Program. Her background and training is in genetics and molecular biology and she has published in several disciplines, including neurobiology, hypertension, and cancer. She also serves as Director of Translational Research.
Laura Finn, MD
Key Investigator
Dr. Finn completed a Hematology/Oncology fellowship at the Mayo Clinic School of Graduate Medical Education in Jacksonville, FL where she remained on faculty for two years as an Assistant Professor of Medicine. She completed advanced training in Bone Marrow Transplants at the University of Minnesota. Dr Finn is board certified in Internal Medicine as well as Hematology and Oncology.
Our Location
The unique combination of patient care, research and education coupled with our multidisciplinary team sets our program apart.
Our Program is located at The Gayle and Tom Benson Cancer Center.
