Renowned Cancer Researcher Dr. Rachna Shroff Dies at 47 After Battling Aggressive Cancer
A University of Arizona scientist internationally recognized for her pioneering work in rare cancers succumbed to the disease she dedicated her life to fighting.
Dr. Rachna Shroff, a distinguished cancer researcher at the University of Arizona, has died at the age of 47. Her passing follows a battle with an aggressive form of cancer, a disease she devoted her career to understanding and curing. The university announced her death on Monday.
Dr. Shroff was a leading figure in the field, holding positions as the associate director of clinical investigations at the University of Arizona Cancer Center and chief of the Division of Hematology/Oncology in the Department of Medicine at the College of Medicine - Tucson. She was internationally recognized for her groundbreaking work on bile duct cancer, also known as cholangiocarcinoma, a rare and historically difficult-to-treat disease. At the time of her research, few treatment options and no Food and Drug Administration-approved therapies were available for cholangiocarcinoma. Her efforts as a principal investigator in landmark clinical trials significantly advanced the field.
Her passion for research began in high school, leading to her eventual focus on developing novel therapies for pancreatic and hepatobiliary cancers. She authored over 80 publications and delivered more than 130 talks throughout her career.
Dr. Shroff was diagnosed with cancer earlier this year. After learning it had spread, she was diagnosed with terminal adenocarcinoma. In September, while facing her own life-limiting illness, she established the Conquer Cancer - Rachna Shroff Endowed Young Investigator Award in Biliary Cancers. Within weeks, this initiative successfully raised more than $1.35 million to support future cancer innovation.
Joining the University of Arizona in 2018, Dr. Shroff dedicated her work to advancing immunological therapies and novel drug treatments, always maintaining a compassionate approach to patient care. Her commitment extended beyond her research; she was known for her ability to connect with patients and colleagues, often infusing her professional life with joy and energy.
Colleagues and organizations remembered Dr. Shroff not only for her professional brilliance but also for her vibrant personality. The Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation noted her ability to bring people together and spread joy, even in difficult times. Lisa Salem Craine, a colleague, described her as a "legend, a friend, and a truly extraordinary human being" who "made a difference in every facet."
Dr. Shroff, whose parents were a nephrologist and a biochemist, aspired from a young age to combine scientific discovery with compassion. She is survived by her husband, Dr. Puneet Shroff, and her children, Simran and Sachin.