ASTCT Board Member Spotlight: Eneida R. Nemecek, MD, MS, MBA

Our latest board member spotlight features Eneida Nemecek, MD, MS, MBA, professor of pediatrics and medical oncology and associate director of clinical research at the Knight Cancer Institute at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU). An established clinician-scientist with more than two decades of experience, Dr. Nemecek has led and contributed to a wide range of investigator-initiated and multicenter clinical trials focused on bone marrow and cellular therapies, experimental oncology therapeutics, and health services research aimed at addressing disparities in access to care. In this Q&A, she reflects on her career in clinical research and leadership, her involvement in national cooperative research groups and professional societies, and the role ASTCT has played in her professional growth and service to the field.

NUCLEUS: Can you describe your current role and your primary clinical and research interests in transplantation and cellular therapy?

Eneida R. Nemecek (ERN): I’m currently the ASTCT treasurer, where I help oversee the organization’s finances. At my institution, I am the director of the pediatric BMT and cell therapy program and also serve as an associate director of clinical research for our NCI Comprehensive Cancer Center.

My clinical interest is in BMT and cell therapy for children, adolescents, and young adults. My research has focused on exploring new conditioning regimens for BMT, studying GVHD and other complications of BMT, and health outcomes research.  

NUCLEUS: What initially drew you to the field of blood and marrow transplantation, and how has your career path evolved since then?

ERN: I became interested in BMT pretty early during my training, as a resident. I was able to rotate in the BMT service at my residency program and was mentored by amazing faculty who inspired me to explore the field further. What fascinated me about the field was not only the ever-evolving science, but also the deep connection made with patients and families during challenging times.  

NUCLEUS: How did you first become involved with ASTCT, and what has kept you engaged with the Society over the years?

ERN: I attended my first ever ASTCT conference as a third-year fellow to present an abstract. I was hooked right away by the sense of community and camaraderie I observed between colleagues from multiple disciplines. I felt welcomed by others, and it offered opportunities for me to stay engaged from a very early stage in my career. The networking and friendships generated as a member of ASTCT have been long lasting and a source of great satisfaction for me.  

NUCLEUS: As an ASTCT board member, what priorities or goals are most important to you?

ERN: Making ASTCT sustainable and attractive for the newer generations are all high priorities for me. Our field is evolving rapidly, and welcoming diverse perspectives will keep us relevant and making meaningful contributions.  

NUCLEUS: What do you see as the most significant opportunities or challenges facing the field of TCT in the coming years?

ERN: A lot of different disciplines are now showing an interest in cellular therapies. As the number of indications for transplant (malignant and nonmalignant) expand, it is important that we stay nimble and humble in our efforts to interact and learn from others, and welcome new disciplines and perspectives to our field. 

NUCLEUS: What advice would you offer an early-career clinician interested in this specialty?

ERN: Get involved in organizations and network! It is never early enough. There is space for everyone at the ASTCT. The collaboration and friendships formed by staying engaged will pay off and are also one of the best perks of our career.