I am a nuclear medicine physician with a clinical and research focus on theranostics, molecular imaging, and targeted radionuclide therapies for cancer. My areas of expertise include thyroid cancer, prostate cancer, neuroendocrine tumors, and the use of novel PET/CT radiotracers to improve diagnosis and treatment. I am particularly interested in theranostics, an approach that uses the same molecular target to both identify and treat disease, allowing for more personalized cancer care.

I grew up in Oregon and have always been drawn to service, education, and global health. Before pursuing my medical career, I spent time in the Peace Corps, an experience that strengthened my commitment to helping others and broadened my perspective on health care and community engagement.

After completing my medical training and becoming board certified in Nuclear Medicine in 2006, I built a career that combines patient care, research, leadership, and education. My clinical work includes PET/CT imaging, nuclear cardiology, and targeted radionuclide therapies. I have extensive experience treating patients with radioiodine therapy for thyroid cancer, Lutathera for neuroendocrine tumors, and prostate cancer therapies including Xofigo and Pluvicto.

Targeted radionuclide therapy is a particular passion of mine. Prior to joining OHSU, I established and led a theranostics program at another institution. I also co-founded the Prostate Cancer Theranostics Program and the Pluvicto Clinic at Hillman Cancer Center at UPMC (University of Pittsburgh Medical Center), helping expand access to advanced therapies for patients throughout Pennsylvania and neighboring states. I also served as Chair of the Radiation Safety Committee for UPMC Presbyterian and UPMC Shadyside Hospitals.

I am actively involved in advancing the field of nuclear medicine through national professional organizations. I am a past president of the American College of Nuclear Medicine and currently serve on its Board of Directors. Education is also a central part of my career. I directed the PET/CT Fellowship Program in Nuclear Medicine and enjoy mentoring fellows, residents, and medical students. I was honored to receive the Nuclear Medicine Teacher of the Year Award for 2024–2025.

My research interests focus on thyroid cancer, radioiodine therapy, oncologic PET/CT imaging, and emerging theranostic agents. Current projects include investigating actinium-225 DOTATATE therapy for neuroendocrine tumors and breast cancer, as well as evaluating novel PET tracers such as FES, PSMA, FAPI, fluciclovine, choline(C-11&F-18), gerintuximab, and FET.

My approach to patient care:
I treat every patient with the dignity and respect that I would my own family members.  I work closely with patients and multidisciplinary care teams to develop personalized treatment plans that reflect each patient’s goals and clinical needs. My goal is to help patients understand their options and feel confident in the decisions they make about their care.

Outside of work:
When I am not working, I enjoy swimming, hiking, biking, and spending time with family. These activities help me stay active, enjoy the outdoors, and maintain balance between my professional and family life.