Global cancer expert joins Ohio State 

Dr. Christian Rolfo leverages multi-cultural background for innovative care

When Christian Rolfo, MD, PhD, MBA, joined The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC – James) in August 2024, he brought decades of global experience and a vision to speed up the path from scientific discovery to patient care.  

As director of the Division of Medical Oncology, Dr. Rolfo oversees nearly 100 physicians and scientists who treat a wide range of cancers, including lung, breast, gastrointestinal, skin and sarcoma, and who conduct research aimed at improving outcomes for patients everywhere. 

Born in Córdoba, Argentina, Dr. Rolfo’s passion for service began early. His curiosity and compassion led him to pursue medicine, and his Italian roots drew him to Europe for further study and research. Over the years, he has worked in Spain, Belgium and the United States, becoming fluent in six languages and gaining recognition as an international leader in oncology. 

Dr. Rolfo, who also holds the Diane Nye and Michael Rayden Chair in Innovative Cancer Research, is known for pioneering work in liquid biopsy, which is a way to detect cancer through a simple blood test instead of a traditional tissue biopsy. By identifying tiny fragments of tumor DNA or circulating cancer cells, this approach offers a less invasive, faster and more precise way to diagnose and monitor cancer. His research has shaped international guidelines and expanded access to personalized treatments for patients with lung and thoracic cancers. 

Now at the OSUCCC – James, Dr. Rolfo continues to push the boundaries of precision medicine, leading early-phase clinical trials and helping connect patients to innovative therapies. He emphasizes that such breakthroughs are possible only because of support from donors, advocates and the Pelotonia community. In 2025, Dr. Rolfo contributed to this mission by actively raising funds for Pelotonia. Above all, he hopes his legacy will be one of turning science into hope by helping discoveries in the lab reach patients faster and by changing lives around the world. 

Read the full story on Health & Discovery here.

This article appeared in the Fall 2025 issue of the Pelotonia Insider, which can be found here.