Rutgers Cancer Institute Names New Leader of Gynecologic Oncology

James K. Aikins, MD, FACOGS, FACS

The team of oncologic professionals at New Jersey’s only NCI-Designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, Rutgers Cancer Institute, has been expanded to include a new chief of gynecologic oncology. James K. Aikins, MD, FACOGS, FACS, who was selected for the role in early February, will also serve as the chief of gynecologic oncology services for Robert Wood Johnson (RWJ) University Hospital.

According to a press release issued by RWJBarnabas Health, Aikins will be in charge of the center’s multidisciplinary gynecologic oncology program, which offers advanced and minimally invasive treatment options, clinical trials, precision medicine, and immunotherapy. According to Aikins, one of the new goals for the department will be to increase participation in clinical trials, as well as collaboration to improve care and expertise. He also hopes to establish training in gynecological subspecialities.

“It is a privilege to have devoted my career to women’s health and I am committed to providing exceptional and compassionate care for my patients,” said Aikins in a statement. “I am excited to work alongside a team of professionals at an NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center in the heart of New Jersey who are dedicated to a team approach in the diagnosis and treatment of gynecologic cancers.”

Aikins received his undergraduate degree at the University of Pennsylvania and his medical degree from the Medical College of Pennsylvania. He completed his residency at Robert Wood Johnson Medical School.

Previously, Aikins conducted research in areas like fertility preservation in gynecologic cancers, vulvectomy, papillary serous carcinoma of the uterus, and endometrial cancer. In addition, he has conducted global health research to better understand cervical cancer screening in underserved populations.

Regarding the appointment of Aikins, Mark V. Sauer, MD, MS, professor, and chair of the Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences and senior associate dean for women’s health at Robert Wood Johnson Medical School stated, in a press release: “I am delighted with the successful recruitment of Dr. Aikins to our Rutgers faculty. He is a highly experienced gynecologic oncologist and committed teacher and researcher, who is nationally known and well respected. He also is a strong advocate for addressing the needs of under-resourced and diverse communities in New Jersey and throughout the world.

“Foremost, he is an empathic and genuinely caring physician who embodies the best qualities of professionalism. I look forward to many years of collaborative work with Dr. Aikins and am confident that he will enhance our department’s mission to provide our community with the best of cancer care,” Sauer added.

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_{Gynecologic Oncology Leader named at New Jersey’s only NCI-designated comprehensive cancer center. News release. February 4, 2021. Accessed February 12, 2021. https://bit.ly/3b2DwJo}