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Fenghuang "Frank" Zhan, M.D., Ph.D., became the Myeloma Center's research director in 2020.
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Myeloma Center Research Director Invested into Endowed Chair
| Fenghuang “Frank” Zhan, M.D., Ph.D., research director of the Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute’s Myeloma Center at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS), is the initial holder of the Dr. Bart Barlogie Chair for Myeloma Research.
Zhan, a tenured professor of medicine whose research focuses on identifying treatment approaches to overcome drug resistance in multiple myeloma, was invested in the endowed chair by the UAMS College of Medicine during a March 13, 2025 ceremony.
An endowed chair is established with gifts of at least $1 million, which are invested and the proceeds used to support the educational, research and clinical activities of the chair holder.
“This endowed chair is not just a personal honor but a shared achievement that represents the collective effort of countless individuals who believe in the power of research to change the world,” said Zhan, who has been the Myeloma Center’s research director since 2020. “I am filled with gratitude, excitement and a deep sense of responsibility. Together, let us continue to push the boundaries of knowledge, inspire the next generation and make a difference in the lives of those we serve.”
Named in honor of Bart Barlogie, M.D., Ph.D., the founder and former director of the Myeloma Center, the chair was established by generous gifts from friends, patients, colleagues and others, with special acknowledgement to Bud and Fran Risser, who were inspired to honor Barlogie’s legacy and accomplishments.
During his tenure at UAMS, Barlogie served as principal investigator in developing the Total Therapy program, which involves the use of proven myeloma agents to reduce tumor burden. It has improved overall survival and progression-free survival, and cures have been documented in about 50% of patients with long-term follow-up.
Zhan received his medical degree and Ph.D. in cancer molecular genetics from Hunan Medical University in Changsha, China. He received his dental degree from West China Medical University in Chengdu, China. Zhan initially came to UAMS in 2000 as a postdoctoral fellow and later as an assistant professor. He then served as an associate professor at the University of Utah and a tenured professor at the University of Iowa before returning to UAMS in 2020.
Andrew Vogler contributed to this story.