We are pleased to announce the promotion of Alexander Ja-Ho Chou, M.D., to Professor of Clinical Pediatrics at Weill Cornell Medicine, effective July 1, 2023. This well-deserved promotion acknowledges Dr. Chou as a nationally recognized expert in the field of pediatric hematology-oncology, specifically in managing metastatic osteosarcoma and other solid tumors.
Dr. Chou's academic journey began at Weill Cornell Medical College, Cornell University where he received his medical degree (M.D.). He went on to complete his residency in pediatrics at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center (WCM), after which he advanced his training by undertaking a pediatric hematology/oncology fellowship at the joint program between NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center and Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC). After completing his fellowship, Dr. Chou spent a decade at WCM/MSKCC as an integral member of the pediatric sarcoma service, concurrently holding key educational and clinical leadership positions. Subsequently, he assumed the role of clinical director of the pediatric sarcoma service at the Children's Hospital at Montefiore, where he played a significant role in the establishment of the Bronx's first pediatric cancer predisposition clinic. In 2021, Dr. Chou returned to Weill Cornell Medicine to offer specialized care for children diagnosed with solid tumors and serves as the Director of Clinical Operations for Pediatric Hematology/Oncology.
In addition to his clinical contributions, Dr. Chou is actively engaged in research. He is primarily focused on exploring innovative treatment modalities for pediatric sarcomas and pediatric solid tumors and is investigating the underlying molecular pathways responsible for tumor growth and progression. He has actively participated in the development of groundbreaking drugs and treatment delivery techniques tailored for relapsed pediatric sarcomas. Furthermore, Dr. Chou is the principal investigator for Children's Oncology Group Clinical Trials at Weill Cornell Medicine. The clinical trials help to advance the field of pediatric oncology and offer cutting-edge medicine and science to our patients. As a testament to his dedication and passion for advancing pediatric oncology, Dr. Chou is an active member of various regional, national, and international collaborative organizations. These include the Children's Oncology Group (COG), the American Society of Pediatric Hematology Oncology, and the Connective Tissue Oncology Society, where he collaborates with peers and experts to enhance the field of pediatric oncology. During the summer months, Dr. Chou serves as the medical director of "Happiness Is Camping," a free residential camp for children with cancer.