Bio
Yuki Imaoka, MD, PhD is a physician-scientist specializing in gastrointestinal and transplant surgery, oncology, and immunology, with over a decade of clinical experience. Dr. Imaoka earned his MD from Hiroshima University, Japan, followed by a PhD in Gastroenterological and Transplant Surgery from Hiroshima University's Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences. After completing his clinical training and professional appointments at Hiroshima University Hospital, he joined Stanford University in August 2022 as a Visiting Assistant Professor in the Sasaki Lab, focusing on translational research.
Dr. Imaoka’s clinical expertise includes a Senior Residency in General Surgery and a Clinical Fellowship in Gastroenterological and Transplant Surgery at Hiroshima University Hospital. In his academic roles, particularly as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Gastroenterological and Transplant Surgery, he has contributed to groundbreaking research, including clinical trials investigating liver natural killer (NK) cell therapy.
His PhD research made significant advances in exploring the anti-tumor properties of NK cells, especially in the context of tissue-specific NK cell immunotherapy. This work has the potential to revolutionize treatments for liver diseases, as it pioneers new pathways in cellular immunotherapy. Dr. Imaoka’s translational research seeks to address the unmet needs in liver disease treatment, with a focus on improving patient outcomes through innovative therapeutic approaches. His goal is to continue advancing the field of gastrointestinal surgery and transplantation, driving progress in both research and clinical practice.
