Frances Collichio is a Clinical Professor of Medicine in the Division of Hematology and Oncology.
What is your clinical expertise?
I have been an oncologist for nearly 26 years and I was the Chair of the in-training examination for the American Society of Clinical Oncology so I have clinical expertise in the field of oncology as a whole. Now my main tumor types are melanoma and primary brain tumors.
Tell us about your current role in the Department of Medicine.
I am a teacher, clinician and clinical researcher. Through the Teaching Scholars Program I gained the tools needed to perform and study teaching methods. Now I am mentoring Residents and Fellows who wish to work on teaching projects with me. My clinical research brings cooperative group trials to our institution.
What current project or initiative at UNC are you involved in that you are excited about?
I was the site Principal Investigator of OPTiM. This is the study that led to the approval of Talimogene Laherparepvec, the first commercially approved oncolytic virus for patients with melanoma. I was even invited to go to the FDA when the medicine was presented to the committee. Now we are using it to treat patients.
How do you like to spend your free time?
My husband Bob and I like to spend time with our children. Our son, Dominic, runs for The University of North Carolina at Asheville. We are delighted that our daughter, Nicole will be married to Josh Neal in May, 2017. This May, Nicole and I will partner in a mini triathalon.