Dr. Fraser Symmans is Professor and Director of Research Operations in the Department of Pathology at MD Anderson Cancer Center, where he practices Breast Surgical Pathology and Cytopathology and also directs the Breast Cancer Pharmacogenomics Laboratory. He received his medical degree from the University of Auckland, New Zealand, completed his residency at Columbia University, New York, and fellowship at MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston. Dr. Symmans joined the faculty of New York University Medical Center in 1993 and moved to MD Anderson Cancer Center in 2000. Dr. Symmans’ research is focused on breast cancer, with specific emphasis on neoadjuvant (pre-operative) treatment trials for evaluation of chemosensitivity and development of diagnostic tests to select the most effective treatments for individuals with breast cancer. This research program has led to the development of predictive molecular tests that are currently being evaluated in a prospective clinical trial. His other ongoing research is addressing the effects of biopsy sample quality on genomic test results in order to establish appropriate best practices for clinical diagnostic use. Additional responsibilities include: Co-Chair for the Translational Breast Cancer Research Consortium, Director of Translational Research Program for the Alliance clinical trials group, and member of the Breast Cancer Steering Committee for the National Clinical Trials Group.