The Department of Interdisciplinary Oncology (DIO) at LSU Health New Orleans is the primary academic home for cancer researchers at the LSU LCMC Health Cancer Center. Created to foster collaboration across disciplines, the DIO brings together basic scientists, population researchers, and clinical investigators to accelerate cancer discovery and improve outcomes.
By housing researchers under one academic structure, the DIO supports productivity, facilitates access to the Cancer Center and LSU School of Medicine shared core resources, and streamlines academic advancement. This model encourages multidisciplinary teamwork, a critical approach in today’s complex cancer research landscape and strengthens support for clinical trials, training, and translational science.
The DIO is guided by experienced faculty leaders whose roles help shape the Cancer Center's research and vision infrastructure. Together, they provide strategic direction, ensure the highest standards of scientific excellence, and connect investigators with the resources they need to drive breakthroughs from the laboratory to the community.
Vital core laboratories, led by DIO faculty, include immunology, histopathology, genomics, proteomics, metabolomics and spatial transcriptomics, giving investigators access to state-of-the-art tools and expertise.
The Department of Interdisciplinary Oncology not only drives collaborative cancer research but also offers graduate study programs that prepare the next generation of scientists, clinicians, and healthcare leaders. Through advanced training and mentorship from leading experts, these programs provide students with the skills and knowledge to tackle complex challenges in cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment, while contributing to innovative research that shapes the future of oncology. You can view course offerings here.
Together, these efforts promote innovation, efficiency, and impact in the fight against cancer.
Augusto Ochoa, MD
Deputy Director, LSU LCMC Health Cancer Center
Chair, Department of Interdisciplinary Oncology
Professor Pediatrics
Al Copeland Cancer Crusaders Endowed Chair