Dr. Carol Aghajanian

160 East 53rd Street, New York, NY 10022
646‑888‑4217

Dr. Aghajanian leads the Gynecologic Medical Oncology Service at MSK, where she integrates clinical expertise with translational research to improve outcomes for people facing complex gynecologic cancers. As an attending physician and endowed Avon Chair in Gynecologic Oncology Research, she directs programs that move promising laboratory ideas into early‑phase trials, with a particular emphasis on targeted therapy and immunotherapy for newly diagnosed ovarian cancer. Her leadership has steered practice‑changing studies that reshaped maintenance strategies and expanded systemic options beyond traditional chemotherapy, establishing MSK as a destination center for difficult‑to‑treat tumors.

 

A hallmark of her work is the focus on personalized regimens informed by molecular profiling and circulating biomarkers. By collaborating with genomic scientists, she has helped validate tumor and blood‑based signatures that predict benefit from PARP inhibition, anti‑angiogenic agents and combination checkpoint blockade. These efforts have translated into regulatory approvals that now allow clinicians worldwide to match therapy intensity to each tumor’s biology, sparing many patients the side effects of broad‑spectrum drugs while extending durable control for those who need novel combinations.

 

Beyond scientific accomplishments, Dr. Aghajanian fosters a culture of compassionate, multidisciplinary care. She works closely with surgical colleagues, radiation experts, genetic counselors, and supportive‑care teams so every person receives an integrated plan that addresses physical health, emotional resilience and long‑term survivorship. Her commitment to mentorship is reflected in national committee roles where she guides young investigators and shapes educational content for gynecologic‑oncology fellows, ensuring that collaborative, patient‑centered values continue to advance the field.

Book An Appointment