VETS DEN Presenter: Dr. Steven Suter, Oncology and Research

Dr. Steven Suter is a distinguished professor in the Department of Medical Oncology, with expertise in veterinary cancer care and a strong background in molecular biology. After completing an undergraduate degree in biology and chemistry, Dr. Suter ventured into various fields, including music, commercial oil rig diving, and yacht electrics, before returning to academia. He earned a Master’s in Biochemistry from New York Medical College and pursued his lifelong dream of veterinary medicine by entering the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine in 2001.

During his time at Penn, Dr. Suter was accepted into the VMD/PhD program, where he earned a PhD in Cellular and Molecular Biology under the mentorship of Dr. Paula Henthorn. His research focused on canine hematopoietic progenitor cells and their potential use in retroviral-mediated gene therapy.

Dr. Suter’s interest in veterinary oncology and bone marrow transplantation led him to complete a residency in Medical Oncology at UC Davis in 2004, mentored by Drs. Bruce Madewell and Cheryl London. Following a brief time in private practice, Dr. Suter joined NC State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine, where he continued his clinical and research work in veterinary oncology.

As the Director of the Canine/Feline Oncology Diagnostic Laboratory and Medical Director of the Canine Bone Marrow Transplant Unit at NC State, Dr. Suter oversees the diagnosis and treatment of companion animals with various malignancies. His professional life bridges both bench science and clinical practice, allowing for dynamic research and impactful patient care. Dr. Suter is passionate about advancing veterinary oncology and leading a busy Medical Oncology service at NC State, collaborating with a talented team of faculty, house officers, and clinical technicians.

Dr. Suter is a distinguished Professor of Medical Oncology and a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (Oncology). He is an Associate Member of the Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center at UNC, where he contributes to cancer research and treatment. Additionally, Dr. Suter is a member of the Comparative Medicine Institute at NC State, fostering collaboration in veterinary medicine, and is an active member of the Veterinary Cancer Society, which connects professionals dedicated to advancing cancer care for animals. Through these esteemed associations, Dr. Suter continues to make significant contributions to the field of veterinary oncology.