Austin-based University of Texas System named Peter Pisters, MD, the sole finalist for the president role at UT MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston.
Here are eight things to know:
1. Dr. Pisters is currently president and CEO of University Health Network in Toronto, Canada.
2. Previously, he worked for 20 years at MD Anderson, from 1994 to 2014.
3. During those two decades, Dr. Pisters served in a number of leadership roles, including as medical director of MD Anderson's six regional cancer centers and as section chief for sarcoma surgery.
4. An oncologist, researcher and professor, MD Anderson honored him with two Fellows Outstanding Teacher Awards and two Faculty Excellence Awards during his tenure.
5. Dr. Pisters is the permanent successor to Ronald DePinho, MD, who announced his resignation in early March via a video statement.
6. Marshall Hicks, MD, is currently serving as interim CEO. He will continue in the role until the UT System Board of Regents finalizes Dr. Pisters' appointment.
7. Although the cancer center has experienced significant financial troubles over the past year, it is now operating in the black. As of July 31, it had an $11 million surplus for the year. The center took several steps to improve its finances, even reducing 1,000 jobs.
8. MD Anderson also recently restructured its leadership team, eliminating its executive vice president roles.
"As a known and admired former faculty member and administrator, Dr. Pisters can transition smoothly and help MD Anderson move forward very effectively," said UT System Chancellor William H. McRaven.