Dr. Jeffrey S. Weber, a distinguished professor of oncology at New York University (NYU), has passed away following a courageous battle with cancer. Dr. Weber, a leader in cancer immunotherapy and melanoma research, was known for his groundbreaking contributions that forever changed the landscape of melanoma treatment. His work brought hope to countless patients and made significant strides in the fight against cancer.
The Melanoma Research Alliance announced Dr. Weber’s passing on Facebook, leading to an outpouring of tributes from colleagues, students, and patients. The organization mourned the loss of a "true pioneer in cancer immunotherapy," acknowledging his role in developing checkpoint inhibitors and other treatments that have become central to melanoma care.
Dr. Weber’s distinguished career included leadership roles at several prestigious institutions, including NYU Langone’s Perlmutter Cancer Center, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center, and USC’s Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center. His visionary work in the field of immunotherapy, particularly in advancing treatments like ipilimumab (Yervoy), revolutionized how melanoma and other cancers are treated.
On Facebook, many expressed their gratitude for Dr. Weber’s contributions. Melissa Edwards Moore, a former patient, shared, "I’m forever grateful to have been a patient of Dr. Weber beginning in 2008 at Moffitt. I participated in his phase one clinical trial for the now named drug Opdivo." JoAnn Flammia Dusky commented, "Without Dr. Weber, we know many people who may already be dead or suffering from melanoma including myself and my husband."
Dr. Weber’s death is a profound loss for the medical community. His legacy, marked by innovation, mentorship, and a relentless commitment to improving patient care, will continue to inspire future generations of oncologists. As friends, family, and colleagues remember his remarkable life and career, they celebrate the indelible impact he had on the world of cancer treatment and the lives he touched.