Roland B. Walter, M.D., Ph.D., M.S.

My translational and clinical research program is focused on human acute leukemia, in particular acute myeloid leukemia (AML). I am particularly interested in the preclinical and early clinical development of novel antigen-directed immunotherapies for acute leukemia and the delineation of the mechanisms of action and resistance that are relevant for these agents. Many of these studies are aimed at optimizing the use of CD33-targeted immunotherapy. We are also investigating the molecular and phenotypic characteristics of leukemia stem and progenitor cells to understand how antigen-directed immunotherapies can be best utilized to eliminate these cells. In clinical studies, I conduct trials testing novel treatments and innovative care approaches for acute leukemia patients. Furthermore, in collaborative research, I use large patient datasets to develop and improve diagnostic and prognostic tools in acute leukemia.