James Howe, MD, professor of surgery and director of Surgical Oncology and Endocrine Surgery at University of Iowa Health Care, has been named the recipient of the 2026 Lifetime Achievement Award from the North American Neuroendocrine Tumor Society (NANETS).
The award recognizes individuals whose careers have made a lasting impact on the care of patients with neuroendocrine tumors through leadership, research, education, mentorship, and clinical excellence.
Howe received the honor during the NANETS Annual Meeting and Awards Ceremony on Nov. 7 in Las Vegas.
A nationally recognized leader in the field of neuroendocrine tumors, Howe has dedicated his career to advancing research, improving patient care, and mentoring future generations of surgeons and physician-scientists.
"I'm honored to receive this recognition from NANETS," said Howe. "Advancing care for patients with neuroendocrine tumors has been the focus of my career, and I'm grateful to have worked alongside outstanding colleagues, trainees, and patients who have contributed to the progress we've made together."
The NANETS Lifetime Achievement Award is one of the organization's highest honors and recognizes individuals whose work has significantly advanced the understanding, diagnosis, and treatment of neuroendocrine tumors throughout their careers.
The award presentation also reflected the strength and collaborative nature of the University of Iowa neuroendocrine tumor program. During the 2026 NANETS Multidisciplinary Symposium in Las Vegas, Jeremy Chang, MS, MD, a resident physician (PGY-6) in the Department of Surgery, and Brandon Toliver presented research posters featuring projects mentored by Howe, highlighting ongoing efforts to advance neuroendocrine tumor research and patient care.
They were joined by past and current members of the Iowa neuroendocrine tumor program, including PhD scientists, medical oncologists, endocrine oncologists, hematology-oncology fellows, pathologists, nuclear medicine physicians, nursing staff, advanced practice providers, family members, and friends. The gathering underscored the multidisciplinary team that has helped establish Iowa as a leader in neuroendocrine tumor research, education, and clinical care.
