Dr. Robert L. Ferris, a surgical oncologist and expert in cancer immunotherapy, has been named the next executive director of the UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, effective October 1.

“Bob Ferris is an exceptional cancer physician-scientist, a highly skilled health executive with deep experience leading a NCI comprehensive cancer center, and a person with a genuine passion for service to others,” said Dr. Wesley Burks, dean of the UNC School of Medicine. “This blend of skills, experience and vision makes Bob the ideal person to lead our cancer center.”

Dr. Robert L. Ferris (Image via UNC-Chapel Hill)

Ferris is a UNC alumnus, having earned his bachelor’s degree in chemistry from the school. He then went on to earn his MD and PhD in immunology from Johns Hopkins Medical School. Most recently, Ferris served as the director of the Hillman Cancer Center at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. Under Ferris’ leadership, the Hillman Center saw a 29 percent increase in peer-reviewed cancer research funding and a 53 percent increase in National Cancer Institute funding.

Ferris will succeed Dr. Shelley Earp, who is stepping down after his second stint as the Lineberger Center’s director. Earp served as director from 1997 to 2014 and again from 2018 to 2024.

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