Medical oncologist, Distinguished Professor of Hematology-Oncology and Health Policy & Management at the University of North Carolina (UNC), director of the Cancer Outcomes Research Program at UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center; ASCO Board of Directors member; Quality Care Symposium Planning Committee chair; Finance Committee, Cancer Prevention Committee, and Journal of Oncology Practice Editorial Board member; Conquer Cancer-supported researcher (2004 Annual Meeting Merit Award, 2007 Career Development Award).

What led you to oncology?

EB: The close relationships formed with patients and families, and intellectual reward of oncology attracted me. As a health services researcher, the complex challenges of quality, cost, and access in cancer care have kept me engaged.

What career could you see yourself in if you weren’t an oncologist?

EB: Movie music composer.

What’s the last book you read?

EB: A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles.

What app or website do you check most often?

EB: Napster.

What hobbies do you enjoy?

EB: Playing jazz bass and tennis.

What is your personal motto?

EB: “The good is the enemy of the perfect.”

What do you think oncology will look like 10 years from today?

EB: Hopefully it will keep its human touch, be more efficient, less expensive, and equitable in its access.

What would you say to a young physician thinking about entering the field of oncology?

EB: Oncology is a highly rewarding field with many different ways to spend a career. Be true to yourself and recognize early what you value professionally and personally, then work with mentors to find a role that fits.