Mark Anderson, Executive VP for Medical Affairs & Dean | The University of Chicago
Harvey M. Golomb, a long-serving faculty member and former chair of the Department of Medicine at the University of Chicago, died on August 20, 2025, at the age of 82.
Golomb was recognized for his expertise in cancer genetics and chemotherapy for leukemia, lymphoma, and lung cancer. His career at the University of Chicago spanned five decades, beginning with a fellowship in 1973 and concluding with his retirement in 2023. He joined the university’s faculty in 1975 and became chief of the Section of Hematology/Oncology in 1981. In addition to serving as department chair from 1998 to 2005, he held roles as dean of Clinical Affairs and chief medical officer for UChicago Medicine between 2002 and 2011.
Golomb received his medical degree from the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine in 1968. He contributed to early-phase clinical trials for hairy cell leukemia and lung cancer and worked alongside Janet Rowley on research that identified genetic subsets of leukemia.
His leadership extended beyond campus; Golomb served as president of the American Society of Clinical Oncology from 1990 to 1991 and was elected to scientific societies such as the American Society for Clinical Investigation. In recognition of his service to the Biological Sciences Division, he was awarded the Gold Key Award by the UChicago Medical & Biological Sciences Alumni Association in 2023.
In a message sent to department staff, Everett Vokes, chair of the Department of Medicine, and Sonali Smith, chief of the Section of Hematology/Oncology wrote: “Many of us remember [Golomb] as an indefatigable person who passionately led the Section and the Department. He was proud to teach medical students and was a mentor to many of us. His ability to find talent and nurture those on his team is legendary.”
This article first appeared on the Biological Sciences Division website.