Corey Speers, M.D., Ph.D., joined the UAB Department of Radiation Oncology as professor and chair in May 2025. Speers reflects on his first month in his new role and what he looks forward to as he helps shape the future of UAB Radiation Oncology.

Below is a correspondence written by Dr. Speers and shared with the UAB Department of Radiation Oncology. 

Dear Colleagues, Friends, and Partners,

One of the first things my family and I noticed upon arriving in Birmingham was just how welcoming this community is. From the moment we pulled into town, whether it was at the grocery store, the local schools, the neighborhood ice cream parlor, or even during a last-minute call to an electrician and plumber, we’ve been met with kindness, warmth, and genuine hospitality. It’s no exaggeration to say that this spirit of openness has made our transition not only smoother—but truly joyful.

This same spirit is alive and well in the UAB Department of Radiation Oncology.

As I reflect on my first month as Chair of the Department of Radiation Oncology, I’m filled with gratitude, excitement, and an overwhelming sense of possibility.

From day one, I have been struck by the depth of talent, dedication, and collegiality that define this department. Whether in the clinic, the lab, or in quiet conversations in hallways and conference rooms, the same theme resounds: a deep, shared commitment to excellence in patient care, innovation in research, and the education of the next generation of leaders in our field.

It has been a joy to begin meeting so many of you—our outstanding faculty, staff, trainees, physicists, therapists, nurses, and administrative leaders—each of whom plays a vital role in making this department what it is. There is an undeniable momentum here, born of years of visionary leadership and hard work, and it is an honor to be stepping into this role at such a pivotal time.

Already, we have begun laying the groundwork for an ambitious future together. Over the past few weeks, I’ve had the opportunity to tour our clinical and research spaces, engage in strategy sessions with departmental and institutional leaders, and witness firsthand the pride we all take in delivering high-quality, compassionate care to the patients who trust us. I’ve also had the privilege of meeting many of our trainees, who are smart, driven, and eager to shape the future of radiation oncology.

There is so much to celebrate already:

• Our team has continued to lead innovative clinical trials that are changing how we treat cancer across the state and the country.
• We’ve submitted new grant proposals, had highly influential manuscripts published, and shared impactful work at national meetings.
• Faculty across our campuses continue to be recognized for their clinical expertise, their mentorship, and their commitment to advancing equity and access in cancer care.
• And perhaps most importantly, we have seen patients return to our clinics healthier and more hopeful, thanks to your unwavering dedication.

But this is only the beginning.

Over the coming months, we’ll be working together to shape a bold strategic vision for the department—one that builds on our existing strengths while positioning us for growth in new areas of scientific discovery, technology, and clinical innovation. We’ll deepen our relationships across the Heersink School of Medicine, the O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center, and our communities across Alabama. And we’ll invest in the people and programs that make this department so special.

My hope is to lead with transparency, humility, and a spirit of shared purpose. I welcome your ideas, your critiques, and your partnership as we chart our course forward. There is no question in my mind that together, we are poised to achieve something extraordinary.

Thank you for the warm welcome, for the trust you’ve extended to me, and for the important work you do every day. I look forward to all that lies ahead—with great optimism and pride.

With appreciation and excitement,

Corey Speers, M.D., Ph.D.
Professor and Chair
Merle M. Salter, M.D. Endowed Chair of Radiation Oncology
UAB Department of Radiation Oncology