Leadership Transition in Radiation Oncology at Jacobs School

Dear Jacobs School community:

It is with deep appreciation and optimism that I share news of a leadership transition in the Department of Radiation Oncology in the Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at the University at Buffalo.  

After many years of distinguished service, Michael Kuettel, MD, PhD, MBA, will retire from his positions as professor and chair of radiation oncology at the Jacobs School and chair of radiation medicine with our health care partner, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center. A nationally recognized leader in radiation medicine, Dr. Kuettel has made a profound and lasting impact on our academic community, clinical programs and training mission. His extensive academic preparation—including a PhD in cell biology, medical education at Northwestern University Medical School, residency at Johns Hopkins, and an MBA from Georgetown University School of Business—exemplifies the depth and breadth of expertise he brought to his leadership roles.

Dr. Kuettel’s many honors, including the American College of Radiation Oncology (ACRO) Gold Medal, his election as a Fellow of American Society for Radiation Oncology, the American College of Radiology and the ACRO, underscore a career marked by national leadership, influential service on key advisory and policy committees, and a sustained commitment to advancing radiation oncology and improving patient care.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Dr. Kuettel has mentored generations of physicians and scientists, cultivating a culture of innovation, collaboration and compassion. His contributions to research, education and institutional leadership have strengthened partnerships that benefit both organizations. 

Under his leadership, the department strengthened its research portfolio and expanded training opportunities that continue to draw top residents and fellows.

With Dr. Kuettel’s retirement, I am pleased to announce that Dheerendra Prasad, MD, MCh, FACRO, will succeed him at both the Jacobs School and at Roswell Park, effective April 1. Dr. Prasad will also continue as chief of gamma knife radiosurgery, a painless, computer-guided form of radiation therapy, and professor of oncology at Roswell Park.

His extensive training, including medical and neurosurgical degrees from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences, a neurosurgery fellowship, and a radiation oncology residency at the University of Virginia, reflects the remarkable depth of expertise he brings to this role.

Dr. Prasad’s appointment ensures continued excellence in training for our residents and fellows across the high volume, technologically advanced clinical environment shared by the Jacobs School and Roswell Park.

An internationally respected expert in stereotactic radiosurgery and a valued colleague to both the Jacobs School and Roswell Park, Dr. Prasad brings exceptional clinical leadership, a strong commitment to research and education, and deep insight into the collaborative work across our shared programs. His insight and vision will be essential in guiding the department into its next chapter of excellence.

Please join me in thanking Dr. Kuettel for his remarkable service and in congratulating Dr. Prasad on his new leadership role.

I look forward to continuing our strong partnership with Roswell Park as we advance radiation oncology across our institutions.

Sincerely, 

Allison Brashear, MD, MBA
Dean, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences
Vice President for Health Sciences
President and CEO, UBMD Physicians' Group