The Kang Lab Research Team is dedicated to advancing exercise oncology research to improve cancer prevention, treatment, survivorship, and quality of life. Led by Dr. Dong-Woo Kang at Fred Hutch Cancer Center, our multidisciplinary team brings together expertise in clinical exercise physiology, public health, epidemiology, clinical trial management, and patient-centered care. Through innovative research and collaborative partnerships, we work to better understand the role of physical activity in cancer outcomes and translate scientific discoveries into accessible, evidence-based interventions for people affected by cancer.
Dong-Woo Kang, PhD, CEP
Principal Investigator
Dr. Dong-Woo Kang is a clinical exercise physiologist and Assistant Professor in the Public Health Sciences Division at Fred Hutch Cancer Center, with an affiliate faculty appointment in the Department of Epidemiology at the University of Washington. He completed his BSc-MSc in Exercise Medicine and Rehabilitation from Yonsei University and his PhD from the University of Alberta, then completed his postdoctoral fellowship and served as an instructor at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School. He has worked as an exercise physiologist and has researched in the field of exercise oncology since 2010, and he is committed to translating this science into accessible therapeutic interventions for people with cancer. Originally from South Korea, Dong-Woo enjoys weight training, running, and snowboarding outside of work.
Sofia Cobos, MPH
Research Project Manager
Sofia Cobos is a Research Project Manager with a BS in Exercise Science and a Master of Public Health degree. She has worked in cancer research since 2019, contributing to studies focused on physical activity and dietary interventions as well as observational research in colorectal cancer. Her interests include supporting research that advances cancer prevention and improving the health and well-being of diverse populations. Originally from Las Cruces, New Mexico, Sofia enjoys practicing yoga (and has completed a 200-hour yoga teacher training program), reading, spending time with family and friends, going on walks, and exploring good food.
Marie Hershberger
Project Coordinator
Marie Hershberger is a Project Coordinator in the Epidemiology Department. After receiving her BS in Public Health from Western Washington University, she began her career at a tribal epidemiology center, where she discovered her interest in serving Indigenous populations. At Fred Hutch, Marie has supported several studies ranging from adolescent cancer survivorship to exercise and diet trials. She also completed a Cancer Control Fellowship at the Northwest Portland Area Indian Health Board through the Native American Research Center for Health. Starting in Fall 2026, Marie will pursue a Master of Public Health in Community Health Sciences at the University of California, Los Angeles. Born and raised in Burien, Washington, she hopes to give back to her local and Indigenous community after completing her degree.
Elaine "Loni" Tipton
Program Assistant
Loni Tipton holds a BS in Psychology and an MS in Speech and Hearing Sciences. She has worked at Fred Hutch for over thirty years as a Lead Research Project Interviewer, Editor, Abstractor, and Project Assistant, contributing to studies on breast, ovarian, colon, and anogenital cancers, an HPV vaccine clinical trial, and long-term survivorship of childhood cancers. Originally from West Hempstead, Long Island, New York, Loni's special interest outside of work is performing and writing for the theatre.
Avanti Bhandari
Research Assistant
Avanti Bhandari is an undergraduate student at the University of Washington studying Biochemistry and Informatics with plans to pursue a career in oncology. She currently works as a Study Aide on the DUO Trial and is interested in learning more about cancer research and improving patient care. Originally from Issaquah, Washington, she enjoys Pilates, baking, and reading in her free time.
Vijay Murali
Research Assistant
Vijay Murali is an undergraduate at the University of Washington studying Biophysiology. He is interested in exercise medicine and how physical activity relates to patient health, and he is currently involved in the REMOVE Trial, where he hopes to contribute to research that advances the role of exercise in healthcare. Originally from Fremont, California, Vijay likes listening to music, eating good food, and spending time with family and friends.
Jessica Presutti
Exercise Specialist
Jessica Presutti is an exercise trainer and an ACSM Certified Cancer Exercise Specialist. She graduated from Elon University with a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science in 2023. In her role at Fred Hutch Cancer Center, she works on clinical trials delivering exercise interventions, supporting research participants, and contributing to studies exploring the impact of physical activity on oncologic outcomes, with the goal of advancing exercise oncology and improving the health and well-being of individuals affected by cancer. Originally from Scituate, Massachusetts, Jessica enjoys staying active and spending time with friends outside of work.