SUMMARY
The research of Meng Welliver, M.D., Ph.D., centers on biomarker-guided, combination treatments that personalize radiation therapy for rare and aggressive cancers, particularly soft tissue sarcomas and thoracic malignancies. Dr. Welliver leads a multidisciplinary translational research program that integrates tumor genetic biomarkers, imaging-based biomarkers and patient-derived models. Through these approaches, she aims to develop predictive tools that personalize therapy, elucidate mechanisms of treatment response and resistance, and improve patient outcomes.
Focus areas
- Developmental therapeutics. Dr. Welliver explores the use of novel agents in combination with radiotherapy to improve treatment outcomes for patients with cancer, with a specific emphasis on soft tissue sarcomas and thoracic cancers.
- Biomarker-guided treatment. Her research uses imaging-based biomarkers to guide personalized cancer therapy, enhancing the precision and effectiveness of combined and radiation treatments.
- Symptom management. Dr. Welliver focuses on improving the quality of life for people with cancer by developing strategies for better symptom management, particularly in vulnerable populations such as older adults and those who are underserved.
- Clinical trials. Dr. Welliver designs and conducts early-phase clinical trials to evaluate the safety and efficacy of novel therapies, with a commitment to translating scientific discoveries into clinical practice.
Significance to patient care
Dr. Welliver works to find better ways to treat cancers that don't have many treatment options, such as soft tissue sarcomas and thoracic cancers. She uses special tests called biomarkers to help choose treatments that are more likely to work for each individual person and cause fewer side effects. Her research focuses on helping patients, especially those who are more vulnerable, feel better during treatment by managing symptoms and using advanced imaging to guide care.
Professional highlights
- Member, Board of directors, Karen Wyckoff Rein in Sarcoma Foundation, 2025-present.
- Member, Editorial advisory board, Applied Radiation Oncology, 2023-present.
- Oral board examiner, American Board of Radiology, 2020-present.
- Associate editor, Thoracic Oncology section, Frontiers in Oncology, 2018-present.
- National principal investigator, MDM2 Inhibitor AMG-232 and Radiation Therapy in Treating Patients With Soft Tissue Sarcoma, funded by the National Cancer Institute, 2017-present.
- Member, Education Committee, American Society for Radiation Oncology, 2006-present.
- Member, Radiation Oncology Subcommittee, RSNA Annual Meeting Program Planning Committee, Radiological Society of North America, 2003-present.