SUMMARY
Stephen M. Ansell, M.D., Ph.D., is a hematologist and oncologist who also conducts cancer research. Dr. Ansell studies the biology of B cell cancers, including Hodgkin's lymphoma, Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Dr. Ansell also investigates the role of the tumor microenvironment in supporting cancer cell growth and survival.
Dr. Ansell is a world-renowned expert in lymphoma. He has spent years advancing immunotherapy and decoding the tumor microenvironment. He is chair of the Division of Hematology at Mayo Clinic. In 2026, Dr. Ansell was named an American Cancer Society Professor. The ACS Professor award is the highest grant award offered by the American Cancer Society. It recognizes researchers whose scientific contributions have had a lasting impact on the field and whose influence extends well beyond their individual research initiatives.
Focus areas
- T cell activation and T cell exhaustion. Dr. Ansell studies why the immune response to cancer is suppressed.
- Tumor-associated macrophages and monocytes. In this research, Dr. Ansell aims to understand the role of phagocytic cells in lymphoma.
- Bone marrow microenvironment in Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia. Dr. Ansell studies the role of cytokines and immunologically active signals in activating or suppressing tumors and promoting immunoglobulin production.
Significance to patient care
Dr. Ansell's goal is to translate knowledge gained from his research into new treatment approaches. Dr. Ansell's research contributed to the use of immune checkpoint therapy in lymphomas. In addition, Dr. Ansell led the clinical trial that resulted in the approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of nivolumab (Opdivo) for Hodgkin's lymphoma.
Professional highlights
- Mayo Clinic:
- Dorotha W. and Grant L. Sundquist Professor of Hematologic Malignancies Research, 2022-present.
- Enterprise Deputy Director and Senior Deputy Director, Midwest, Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center, 2022-present.
- Outstanding Investigator Award, Department of Medicine, 2018.
- Chair, Scientific Advisory Committee, International Waldenstrom's Macroglobulinemia Foundation, 2015-present.
- Member, Scientific Advisory Board, Lymphoma Research Foundation, 2015-present.
- Blood Cancer United (formerly Leukemia & Lymphoma Society):
- Member, Scientific Committee, 2015-present.
- LLS Excellence in Scientific Service award, 2022.
- Associate editor, American Journal of Hematology, 2011-present.
- Ernest Beutler Lecture and Prize award, American Society of Hematology, 2021.