Smithsonian Affiliations Presents: The Journey Continues — Progress & Promise in Cancer Research
The Health Museum is honored to be selected as one of only 25 Smithsonian Affiliates nationwide to help celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. In partnership with Smithsonian expert Dr. Alexandra Lord and Dr. Katy Rezvani of The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, we will explore the richness and complexity of the American experience through the history of medical advancements in cancer treatment and cures.
Join us for a look into one of medicine’s most important stories: the past, present, and future of cancer research. Modern advances are changing how we detect and treat cancer, and this conversation will explore the journey from discovery to cure.
During this one-hour conversation, Dr. Lord and Dr. Rezvani will explore the history of cancer research and the patient advocacy that has shaped it. They will discuss how trust, transparency, and reciprocity shape the relationship between the public and the research community, as well as the pressures and possibilities facing science today.
The talk will also touch on the growing influence of artificial intelligence in medical research and the importance of making sure that research advances benefit the people who need them most.
Meet the Speakers
Chair, Division of Medicine & Science, National Museum of American History
Dr. Lord specializes in the history of medicine, with a focus on infectious disease and public health. She oversaw the multi-year review of the nation’s collection of the most significant objects related to the history of medicine and science. An active scholar, Dr. Lord has received numerous grants and awards throughout her career, including the Fulbright Senior Research Fellowship.
Head of Division, Cell Therapy Discovery & Innovation,
UT MD Anderson
Dr. Rezvani is a physician-scientist whose work focuses on developing immune cell therapies for cancer. Her laboratory is internationally recognized for advancing natural killer (NK) cell therapies, including genetically engineered NK cells designed to recognize and kill cancer cells more effectively. Her work sits at the intersection of discovery science, translational medicine, and clinical application to bring new immune-based treatments to patients.
Attend the Event
There is no cost to attend this event. However, pre-event registration is highly recommended. Donations are appreciated and go directly toward supporting our educational mission.
Attendees are welcome to tour The Journey to End Cancer: From Cause to Cure, a new exhibition developed in partnership with UT MD Anderson Cancer Center, before or after the talk.
About the Series
The Making History, Making Change Lecture Series is organized by Smithsonian Affiliations as part of the Smithsonian’s Our Shared Future: 250. It is supported in part by the Dreier Family, Johanna & Ken Kim Family, Vaishali Shah Chadha & Family, and Michael Vu & Meridel Bulle-Vu.
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