US Oncology, an integrated oncology company, has appointed Kevin Coker as the vice president of US Oncology Research, US Oncology’s site management organization and wholly-owned subsidiary.

Coker was most recently the director of Research Operations for Rocky Mountain Cancer Centers (RMCC), and was implemental in the growth of RMCC as a top program in the United Network of US Oncology. During Coker’s tenure, RMCC achieved distinction as one of the top accruing research sites in the network in 2008 and 2009, with a 43% increase in accruals by improving internal processes, implementing time-saving technology, reducing turnover and engaging team members in the mission and objectives.

Coker’s professional background also includes the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Clinical Research Center, where he implemented and facilitated more than 100 clinical research projects in three years, and time as an Assistant Attorney General at the Arkansas Attorney General’s Office.

Coker is a past member and chair of the Ethics Subcommittee for the Regulatory Affairs Professional Society. He currently serves as a member for the Board of Editors of Focus Magazine.

“I’m looking forward to this new position,” said Coker.  “Research is an integral part of US Oncology’s mission to advance cancer care, and I’m excited to push this mission even further.”

 “Grant Bogle, executive vice president, Strategy & Emerging Businesses, US Oncology, added: “US Oncology Research has made great strides in advancing high-quality cancer care to patients nation-wide including conducting 700 clinical trials and getting 40 drugs approved by the FDA.  Having Kevin’s work and expertise will only help in advancing our goals.”