Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jessica Fleming , The Ohio State University , United States
Dr. Jessica L. Fleming is an Associate Radiobiologist at the Ohio State University, specializing in the field of radiation oncology and molecular biology. She works under the guidance of Dr. Arnab Chakravarti at the James Comprehensive Cancer Center. Dr. Fleming has made significant contributions to the study of gliomas, particularly in molecular biomarker identification and therapeutic advancements, such as FLASH radiotherapy. With over a decade of research experience, she has co-authored numerous high-impact publications and presented at global conferences. In addition to her research, Dr. Fleming co-founded Cap City Biohackers, showcasing her entrepreneurial spirit. Her work bridges clinical and molecular oncology, offering promising insights for more effective treatments in brain cancer. Her dedication to advancing cancer therapy and her active involvement in multidisciplinary projects make her a respected leader in the field.
Publication Profile:
Scopus
Strengths for the Award:
Dr. Jessica L. Fleming is an exemplary researcher with extensive experience and a robust academic foundation in Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology. She has contributed significantly to the field of radiobiology, particularly in glioma research and radiotherapy, showcasing her dedication to advancing scientific knowledge and clinical practices. Her interdisciplinary approach, integrating radiation oncology and molecular biology, has resulted in numerous impactful publications. With a remarkable body of work on the molecular biomarkers of gliomas, tumor progression, and therapeutic resistance, Dr. Fleming’s contributions are widely recognized in prestigious journals and conferences. Her leadership and innovative work with FLASH radiotherapy have expanded the clinical potential of radiation therapies in cancer treatment.
Areas for ImprovementL:
While Dr. Fleming’s research is groundbreaking, her focus on gliomas, although highly relevant, could benefit from diversifying to other cancer types or broader clinical applications of radiotherapy. Expanding her research into exploring the intersection of genetic therapies and radiobiology could further enhance her contributions. Strengthening collaborations across more global platforms would also amplify the reach and impact of her work.
Education:
Dr. Jessica L. Fleming obtained her Ph.D. in Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology from The Ohio State University, where she honed her expertise in cellular mechanisms underlying cancer progression. She also earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology, Cum Laude, from Ashland University. Dr. Fleming’s academic foundation enabled her to develop a strong understanding of cancer biology, particularly glioma pathophysiology, setting the stage for her pioneering research in radiation oncology. Her studies focused on molecular biomarkers and the innovative application of advanced therapies such as FLASH radiotherapy. Through her education and research training, Dr. Fleming developed a deep commitment to improving cancer treatment, combining basic science with clinical applications. Her graduate work at OSU contributed to the understanding of molecular pathways in cancer cells, which has been instrumental in her subsequent professional achievements in oncology research.
Experience:
Dr. Jessica L. Fleming has held several significant positions at The Ohio State University, starting as a Senior Research Associate and progressing to her current role as Associate Radiobiologist. Her research has focused on advancing therapeutic strategies for gliomas, particularly adult lower-grade gliomas and glioblastoma, through molecular profiling and innovative radiation treatments. Notably, she has worked extensively on FLASH radiotherapy, a cutting-edge technique designed to reduce radiation-induced toxicity. Dr. Fleming’s contributions have spanned both bench-side research and clinical translation, culminating in her role as a co-author of numerous publications. In addition to her research career, Dr. Fleming co-founded The Cap City Biohackers, an initiative focused on the democratization of biotechnology and biohacking, illustrating her entrepreneurial spirit. Her role in translating research findings into clinical practice has made her an integral part of Ohio State’s radiation oncology team.
Awards and Honors:
Dr. Jessica L. Fleming has received numerous awards and accolades for her contributions to the field of radiation oncology and cancer research. Notably, she earned the prestigious ASTRO Annual Meeting Abstract Award in 2024, reflecting her exceptional work in cancer radiotherapy. In 2020, Dr. Fleming was recognized as a member of the Leadership Columbus Class of 2021 and received the Columbus CEO Future 50 Award, which celebrates emerging leaders in business and science. Her outstanding achievements in basic and translational science were further recognized with the Best of ASTRO Award in 2018. These accolades speak to her dedication to advancing research and clinical outcomes in the field of cancer treatment. Dr. Fleming’s recognition by prestigious institutions highlights her excellence in both scientific research and leadership in radiation oncology, underscoring her commitment to improving patient outcomes through innovative therapy.
Research Focus:
Dr. Jessica L. Fleming’s research is centered on improving therapeutic outcomes for gliomas through innovative approaches in radiation oncology. Her work focuses on molecular biomarker identification, the impact of radiation treatments, and the integration of new therapies like FLASH radiotherapy. FLASH radiotherapy, which delivers ultra-high doses of radiation in very short timeframes, has shown potential in reducing side effects while improving tumor control. Additionally, Dr. Fleming investigates the molecular mechanisms underlying glioma progression, specifically in the context of lower-grade gliomas and glioblastomas. Her research aims to translate laboratory findings into clinical treatments that are more effective and less toxic. By bridging basic science with clinical application, Dr. Fleming seeks to develop personalized treatment strategies that can improve survival rates and quality of life for patients with brain cancer. Her focus on radiation therapy and molecular profiling holds promise for advancing cancer care.
Publications Top Notes:
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Fleming JL et al. Comprehensive Molecular Analysis in NRG Oncology/RTOG 9813: A Phase III Study of Radiation and Temozolomide Versus Radiation and BCNU/CCNU in Anaplastic Astrocytoma. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys. 2025. 📄
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Manring HR et al. FLASH Radiotherapy: From In Vivo Data to Clinical Translation. Hematol Oncol Clin N Am. 2025. 📄
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Fleming JL, Chakravarti A. Recent Advancements and Future Perspectives on Molecular Biomarkers in Adult Lower-Grade Gliomas. Cancer J. 2025. 📄
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Kotecha R et al. Multidisciplinary Management of Isocitrate Dehydrogenase-Mutated Gliomas in a Contemporary Molecularly Defined Era. J Clin Oncol. 2024. 📄
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Becker AP et al. Proteomic Analysis of Spatial Heterogeneity Identifies HMGB2 as Putative Biomarker of Tumor Progression in Adult-Type Diffuse Astrocytomas. Cancers (Basel). 2024. 📄
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Bredel M et al. Haploinsufficiency of NFKBIA Reshapes the Epigenome Antipodal to the IDH Mutation and Imparts Disease Fate in Diffuse Gliomas. Cell Rep Med. 2023. 📄
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Singh K et al. TRIB1 Confers Therapeutic Resistance in GBM Cells by Activating the ERK and Akt Pathways. Sci Rep. 2023. 📄
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Cuitiño MC et al. Comparison of Gonadal Toxicity of Single-Fraction Ultra-High Dose Rate and Conventional Radiation in Mice. Adv Radiat Oncol. 2023. 📄
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Becker AP et al. Correspondence Comprehensive Characterization of a Brainstem Aggregoma. Brain Path. 2023. 📄
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Fleming JL et al. Long-Term Report of a Comprehensive Molecular and Genomic Analysis in NRG Oncology/RTOG 0424: A Phase II Study of Radiation and Temozolomide in High-Risk Grade II Glioma. JCO Precis Oncol. 2021. 📄
Conclusion:
Dr. Jessica L. Fleming’s accomplishments in radiation oncology and molecular research make her a highly deserving candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award. Her innovative work, leadership in radiobiology, and active role in mentoring the next generation of scientists are significant factors in her outstanding suitability for the award.