Get to Know James Saller, MD

James Saller, MD
Program Director of the Oncologic Molecular Pathology Fellowship - Moffitt Cancer Center
Tampa, Florida

What is your current role?
I am a Molecular Pathologist, Department of Pathology in the Advanced Diagnostics Laboratory (ADL) and Program Director of the Oncologic Molecular Pathology Fellowship at H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center.  

What is the best part of your occupation?
The most rewarding aspect is being part of a collaborative team effort. It's satisfying to help bring clarity to cases where molecular results can provide valuable insights that can contribute to a patient’s diagnosis or guide targeted therapy specific to the unique biology of their tumor. It's also fulfilling to offer insights for cutting-edge research.  

How did you become interested in pathology?
I became interested in Pathology during training, when I consistently found myself wanting to understand the underlying processes driving the cancer cases I encountered.  Seeing the histological manifestations of disease was particularly compelling, as it provided tangible insight into tumor biology.  This curiosity naturally evolved and ultimately led me to my current role in Molecular Pathology.

How did you become involved with the FSP?
My involvement with the Florida Society of Pathologists stems from a strong interest in engaging with the Pathology community. I value opportunities to serve on committees where my area of expertise can be beneficial, as well as to present on recent research developments or practical topics within Molecular Pathology.

Explain how you benefit from being a member of FSP?
Membership in the Florida Society of Pathologists allows me to contribute my skill set to the broader pathology community. FSP provides a platform to share expertise in Molecular Pathology through committee service and educational presentations, fostering professional collaboration and continued growth within the field.

What would you like to see occur in the field of pathology (i.e., scientific advances, greater awareness of the field, etc.) during your career?
I would like to see the continued cultivation of a truly multidisciplinary team-based culture in pathology. The positive outcomes experienced by patients at Moffitt are the result of close collaboration between pathologists and clinicians, particularly in the management of complex cancer cases. Sustaining and expanding this model will be essential for advancing patient care and the field as a whole.

What are your hobbies outside of the office?
I enjoy playing music with my preferred instruments being guitar and piano.  I also enjoy painting.

What is something surprising that most people do not know about you?
I've lost my wife to cancer.  Personally knowing the impact that cancer has on the lives of patients is what motivates me to do the best I possibly can for our patients.

Is there anything I did not ask that you would like mentioned in the article?
I'm passionate about the education of our fellows.  As Program Director of the Oncologic Molecular Pathology Fellowship, I have an opportunity to help guide the next generation of Pathologists.  The complex cases we have at Moffitt are examples of how our multi-disciplinary efforts translate to providing optimal care for our patients.