As we look ahead to FACTOR in Columbus, we’re excited to feature Ryan Roberts, MD, PhD, from Nationwide Children’s Hospital. With the conference being in his home city, he brings a special perspective to this year’s FACTOR. He shares what makes FACTOR such a unique and meaningful space, why bringing the entire osteosarcoma community together really matters, and how those connections continue to drive progress. He also reflects on what keeps him hopeful and why he looks forward to FACTOR each year.
Can you tell us a little about yourself and your background?
Husband. Boy dad. (Now man dad?) Christian. Scientist. Physician. Mentor. Outdoorsman. Woodworker. Kind human being. These are roles I aspire to do well. I grew up in the mountains of Utah and moved to the forests of Ohio when I started medical school—and stayed! Kim and I have raised three boys here in Ohio. The youngest just turned 18, so we're facing an empty nest—our next life adventure. We are active in our church and play many roles there; currently, I serve as a pastor and leader for our college student congregation. We love to get out and explore, and I love spending time in my shop.
Can you share a little about your role at Nationwide Children’s and how you got into working in osteosarcoma/pediatric oncology?
At Nationwide Children's, I lead a research lab focused on osteosarcoma and metastasis biology—work that is very closely aligned with the mission of MIB. We work to discover the drivers of metastatic disease and develop interventions that either prevent metastatic spread or make it more treatable. Over the years, we've built a strong pipeline of technologies—including single-cell sequencing frameworks and patient-derived sarcoma models—and a talented team of graduate students, postdocs, and career scientists helping us advance this cause. What drew me to this work was the patients. I witnessed too many stories where the joy of NED gave way to the devastation of new metastatic disease. Within those stories, I saw so many unanswered questions that, if answered, could make a real difference.
What has continued to motivate you in this field over time?
Progress. We've learned so much over the last decade, and I think there is real reason for optimism. While there is still much to learn, we know far more than we did when I started this journey. The community that has united around this disease (and around these questions) inspires me and gives me genuine hope that meaningful change is coming.
From your perspective, what makes FACTOR such an important space for the osteosarcoma community? Why do you think it’s important for clinicians, researchers, and families to come together in spaces like FACTOR?
I haven't seen many other places where ALL the stakeholders come together, united around common goals, with such determination and shared purpose. I am proud to be part of this community. It is a special group of people. And, I look forward to this meeting every year. It reminds me of my purpose and fills me with hope for the future.
What gives you the most optimism about the future for patients and families facing osteosarcoma?
Knowledge. The science is getting better and advancing into clinical trials. Legitimately rational, scientifically-founded clinical trials supported by strong preclinical data. It takes time. But it's coming.
What are you most looking forward to at FACTOR this year?
Well, y'all are coming to our house, and I think you'll love it. Columbus might not be on your bucket list the same way that Maui or Aspen might be (and yes, Ann, those are genuine suggestions for future venues). But it's a great place to work and live—an easy place to work and live—and we've built something special here. And, we like to have fun. I think you'll all leave smiling. Some of you might even come back someday! If anyone needs suggestions for exploring for a few days before or after the meeting, let me know. I’ll hook you up.
