Drew Moghanaki, MD, MPH

Dr. Drew Moghanaki, Chief of Thoracic Oncology at UCLA Health’s Department of Radiation Oncology, is internationally recognized for his expertise in high-precision radiation therapy treatments for patients with non-small cell lung cancer, small-cell lung cancer, and thymoma. He specializes in non-invasive treatments including stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) or stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SABR), intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), and magnetic resonance-guided radiation therapy (MRgRT). Dr. Moghanaki works collaboratively with each patient's cancer care team, whether they are at UCLA or other institutions, to develop personalized treatment plans integrating advanced therapies like immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and chemotherapy whenever necessary. Using state-of-the-art biomarker and molecular testing, he also personalizes care to meet the unique needs of each patient, whether they have early-stage or metastatic disease.

As the Stanley Iezman and Nancy Stark Endowed Chair in Thoracic Radiation Oncology Research, Dr. Moghanaki is not only a leader in clinical care but also at the forefront of lung cancer research, shaping clinical practice guidelines. He leads multiple national research efforts, including the VALOR phase III clinical trial which investigates SBRT or SABR as an alternative to lung surgery. His unwavering dedication to patient care is reflected in his leadership of over $60 million in lung cancer research initiatives awarded to date. He is also a tireless advocate for expanding access to lung cancer screening programs, leading the VA Partnership to Increase Access to Lung Screening (VA-PALS) and the California Partnership to Increase Access to Lung Screening (CAL-PALS).

Beyond his work at UCLA, Dr. Moghanaki co-directs the VA Greater Los Angeles Lung Precision Oncology Program to ensure Veterans have access to similarly high-quality care. He is a sought-after expert, delivering lectures around the world. He also serves on steering committees and scientific advisory boards for prestigious organizations such as the American Cancer Society’s National Lung Cancer Roundtable, LUNGevity Foundation, GO2 Foundation for Lung Cancer, and the Lung Cancer Foundation of America. Dr. Moghanaki’s leadership and innovative approach to lung cancer care make him one of the most trusted and leading authorities in the field.