Alex J. Rai, PhD

Accepting New Patients
Profile Headshot

Overview

My research focuses on the identification of biomarker signatures derived from noninvasively collected samples, such as blood and urine, in an effort to better define health and disease states. Over the last several years we have developed and optimized liquid biopsy-based approaches to identify, characterize, and define the utility of novel biomarkers- to obtain clinically relevant information that can be translated into laboratory assays with actionable results that help our doctors make informed decisions and improve patient outcomes. Within the oncology disease space, we are aiming to identify biomarkers that can provide information on risk stratification, to distinguish aggressive from indolent disease, as well as markers that can help to predict a patient’s ability to respond to available therapies. These new tests will initially serve as an adjunct to existing tests, will obviate the need for painful and unnecessary biopsies, detect metastasis in the earliest stages, and allow for the most targeted treatments for cancer patients based on their unique disease and genotype. We strive to provide “precision laboratory medicine” and allow our clinical colleagues to integrate this information within the clinical context of their patients.

Academic Appointments

  • Professor of Pathology and Cell Biology at CUMC

Administrative Titles

  • Director, Special Chemistry Laboratories
  • Director, Clinical Chemistry Service
  • Co-Director, Automated Core Laboratory & Point-of-Care Testing Service

Schedule an Appointment

Connect Patient Portal

For existing patients, login to make an appointment, view documentation or contact your care provider.

Connect Sign In

Credentials & Experience

Committees, Societies, Councils

  • CAP Molecular Oncology Committee, AACC-Liaison (2013-present)
  • AACC Molecular Pathology Division, Chair (2012-2013), Executive Board (2012-present)
  • AACC Proteomics Division, Executive Board (2010-present), Treasurer (2017-present)
  • AACC, New Jersey Local Section, Chair (2014-2015)

Honors & Awards

  • 2008
    AACC Award for Outstanding Scientific Achievements by a Young Investigator 2008
    American Association for Clinical Chemistry (AACC)
  • 2004
    Young Investigator Award- Human Proteome Organization
    Human Proteome Organization (HUPO) World Congress
    Beijing, China (October 23-27, 2004)
  • 2002
    Paul E. Strandjord Young Investigator Award
    Academy of Clinical Laboratory Physicians and Scientists (ACLPS)