Timothy Graubert, MD, is a leading researcher in the study of hematologic malignancies. Dr. Graubert’s laboratory seeks to gain insight into the biological basis of myeloid leukemias and to improve strategies for diagnosis, risk stratification and targeted therapy. His research focuses on the molecular genetics of familial acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS).
Dr. Graubert led the group that performed the first whole genome sequencing studies in MDS. This information led to a new understanding of how this disease is initiated and evolves when patients progress to acute leukemia. Among the important and unexpected discoveries to come from this work was Dr. Graubert’s discovery of novel mutations in the U2AF1 gene in patients with MDS. This gene is important for RNA processing and this finding has opened up a new line of investigation into the role of splicing gene mutations in the pathogenesis and treatment of myeloid leukemias. In addition, Dr. Graubert’s team has described novel recurrent mutations in other genes, including IDH2 and DNMT3A, that have significance in the prognosis of acute myeloid leukemia.
Dr. Graubert is the Jon and JoAnn Hagler Chair in Hematology-Oncology at the Mass General Cancer Center. He has mentored more than 30 trainees, and translates his groundbreaking research into direct patient care. In his role as the director of the Hematologic Malignancies program at the Cancer Center, Dr. Graubert stands out for his selfless and nurturing style of leadership. In the words of his colleagues: “he is the epitome of team spirit.”
