Dr. Charis Eng. Death, Obituary – A Beacon of Hope and Innovation in Genomic Medicine, It is with profound sadness that we share the news of the passing of Dr. Charis Eng, a beloved leader in the field of genomic medicine and a cherished friend to many. Dr. Eng, who served as the Global Director of Genomic Research Strategies at the Cleveland Clinic, passed away recently, leaving behind a legacy that will forever resonate in the fields of medical genetics and patient care.
Dr. Eng’s journey began far from the research laboratories of Cleveland, in her native Singapore. From a young age, she was inspired by her family’s accomplishments in medicine and research. Her passion for human cancer genetics was ignited at just 16, setting her on a path that would significantly impact the lives of countless individuals worldwide. Her academic journey led her to the University of Chicago, where she conducted pioneering research under the mentorship of Dr. Ed Garber.
This mentorship blossomed into a lifelong professional relationship, shaping Dr. Eng’s illustrious career. After completing her MD and PhD at the Pritzker School of Medicine, Dr. Eng honed her expertise through rigorous postdoctoral training at prestigious institutions, including Harvard’s Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and the University of Cambridge. Her groundbreaking work at the intersection of genetics and oncology began with her pivotal discovery of the PTEN gene’s role in Cowden Syndrome.
This breakthrough not only challenged the “one-gene-one-disease” paradigm but also established a new understanding of how PTEN mutations can be linked to a spectrum of conditions, including various cancers and overgrowth disorders. Dr. Eng’s tenure at the Cleveland Clinic, which began in 2005, was marked by remarkable achievements. She founded the Center for Medical Genetics and Genomics and the PTEN Multidisciplinary Clinic and Center of Excellence, which has become a beacon of hope for patients with PTEN-related conditions.
Her commitment to translating research discoveries into clinical practice ensured that her work had a direct and profound impact on patient care and outcomes. The PTEN Center, under her leadership, attracted patients from across the globe, seeking her expert care and innovative treatment options. Her contributions to the field were not only in research but also in the education and mentorship of the next generation of scientists and clinicians. Dr. Eng’s influence extended through the many trainees and colleagues she inspired, embodying the principles of diligence, curiosity, and compassionate care.
Her dedication earned her numerous accolades, including the Medal of Honor from the American Cancer Society in 2018 and recognition as one of America’s Most Honored Doctors in 2020. Her achievements were also celebrated through the Sones Award from the Cleveland Clinic in May 2024, a testament to her groundbreaking work and innovation. Dr. Eng’s passing is a significant loss to the scientific community, her colleagues, and the patients whose lives she touched.
Her legacy is not only in the groundbreaking research she conducted but also in the compassionate care she provided and the inspiration she instilled in others. As we mourn her loss, we find solace in her enduring impact and the many lives she has transformed through her work. To those who had the privilege of knowing her, working with her, or being touched by her research, Dr. Eng’s memory will be cherished.
Her life’s work continues to inspire us to pursue excellence, to challenge the status quo, and to always strive to make a difference. In her own words, “Do not despair, the show must go on.” As we remember Dr. Eng, we honor her commitment to advancing medical science and improving patient care, and we vow to continue her mission with the same fervor and dedication she exemplified throughout her extraordinary career.
Rest in peace, Dr. Charis Eng. Your legacy will endure through the lives you changed and the knowledge you imparted.
