Our Director

John L. Marshall, MD
Physician Executive Director, MedStar Washington DC Integrated Hematology-Oncology Division, Director, The Ruesch Center for the Cure of GI Cancers, Frederick P. Smith Endowed Chair, Chief Medical Officer, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center

Dr. Marshall received his training at Duke University, the University of Louisville, and Georgetown University. Dr. Marshall is an internationally recognized expert in new drug development for GI cancer, with expertise in phase I, II, and III trial design, and has served as Principal Investigator for more than one hundred clinical trials throughout his career. While he has an interest in many areas of cancer research, his primary focus is on the use of precision medicine in treating cancer. Dr. Marshall has become an outspoken advocate for GI cancer patients and the importance of clinical research participation. In 2009, he established the Otto J Ruesch Center for the Cure of GI Cancers , an organization solely focused on improving the lives of GI cancer patients through innovative research, personalized medicine, and focused advocacy. In 2015, Dr. Marshall both established and directed the Precision Oncology Alliance, a national alliance established to study the impact of molecular profiling on cancer research, value, and outcomes. He currently is serving as the Oncology CMO for Indivumed, creating a global precision medicine research network.

Dr. Marshall’s passion for medicine began at an early age when, at 14, he lost his mother to non-Hodgkin lymphoma and dedicated himself to becoming a doctor and helping find a cure for cancer. His deep care for his patients and his warm humor help Dr. Marshall develop strong doctor-patient relationships. He counts the relationships with his patients as one of the most gratifying parts of his job.

In 2006, he acquired the additional perspective of being a caregiver for a cancer patient as his wife, Liza, was diagnosed with an aggressive form of breast cancer and underwent nine months of treatment. In 2021, he and his wife published their first book, “Off Our Chests,” exploring the world of cancer medicine and the impact of a cancer diagnosis on patients, caregivers, and cancer professionals.

Dr. Marshall lives in Arlington, Virginia, with his wife.