Meet Our Expert Nursing Team at UCSF Cancer Immunotherapy Clinic
At the UCSF Cancer Immunotherapy Clinic, we are proud to introduce our exceptional nursing team that plays an indispensable role that extends far beyond traditional nursing responsibilities. These specialized professionals bring a wealth of knowledge, compassion, and skill to the table, contributing significantly to the success of clinical trials and, ultimately, the advancement of cancer care.
Elaine Esler, RN, MSN, OCN, NE-BC, Nurse Supervisor
Elaine is a seasoned RN with a Master of Science in Nursing degree, along with specialty certifications in both Oncology and Nursing Leadership. With over 20 years of experience in oncology nursing, Elaine’s knowledge of cancer treatments, immunotherapy protocols, and the clinical trial process ensures that our whole team works together seamlessly to provide the best care to our patients.
Benjamin Raudabaugh, RN, MSN, Nurse Practitioner
Ben combines clinical expertise with advanced practice, allowing him to impact patient care, drive innovation, and contribute to the clinic's success in profound ways. Ben’s ability to synthesize complex medical information, implement interventions, and collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams ensures that patient care remains at the forefront of clinical excellence. Whether managing treatment-related symptoms, coordinating supportive services, or facilitating open communication, Ben works to ensure that patients receive care that addresses the entirety of their experience.
Emily Rodriguez, RN, BSN, OCN
Emily is the most recent addition to our team, joining in summer 2025. She also moved from Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, where she was an accomplished oncology nurse with expertise in clinical trials, cellular therapies, and med-surg oncology. She brings a passion for oncology patients and an attention to detail that has helped her settle in seamlessly to our group. She is focused on building meaningful connections with our patients, assisting them in their clinical trial journey. Emily is committed to advancing oncology nursing practice through innovation, education, and compassionate patient care. She brings strong organizational, clinical, and multidisciplinary collaboration skills to every role she undertakes.
Roz Ruiz, RN, BSN, OCN, CMSRN
Roz is a skilled and compassionate oncology nurse with over 10 years of experience in patient care. She began her career at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, working in hospital inpatient units, outpatient clinics, and research programs, where she helps coordinate clinical trials. In addition to her hands-on care, Roz is a dynamic leader who helps improve our workflows, ensuring better outcomes for her whole team and our patients. She is actively involved in professional organizations, including the Oncology Nursing Society (ONS) and the International Association of Clinical Research Nurses (IACRN). Roz is passionate about advancing cancer care through education, clinical excellence, and innovative research, always putting patients at the center of her work.
Samantha Shenoy, RN, MSN, Nurse Practitioner
Sam is a distinguished member of the UCSF Cancer Immunotherapy Clinic team. She has over 15 years of experience encompassing both inpatient and outpatient clinic roles. She monitors patients undergoing immunotherapy, promptly addressing any adverse events, and collaborating closely with the medical team to adjust treatment plans when necessary. Her ability to integrate medical knowledge, nursing expertise, and patient-centered care ensures that each patient receives the highest standard of comprehensive care. Through clear communication and empathetic guidance, Samantha empowers patients to actively participate in their treatment decisions, fostering a sense of control and engagement throughout their journey.
Megan Shields, RN, BSN
Megan's commitment to personalized patient care is evident in every interaction she has. Her warm and caring demeanor creates an atmosphere of trust, ensuring that patients and their families feel comfortable discussing their concerns and receiving the necessary support throughout their treatment journey. Megan’s commitment to continuous learning and staying at the forefront of medical advancements is an invaluable asset to both our team and our patients.
Samantha Zylberman, RN, BSN, MS
Samantha's thoroughness and excellent critical thinking skills make her an invaluable asset in managing the complexities of cancer immunotherapy. Her deep understanding of each clinical trial and meticulous attention to detail allow her the opportunity to help patients and families understand what to expect during their cancer immunotherapy journey.
At the UCSF Cancer Immunotherapy Clinic, you can trust that you are in the capable hands of a nursing team that is dedicated to your well-being, comfort, and successful treatment journey. Together with our esteemed medical professionals, and the rest of our Clinical Research team members, we form a cohesive team that strives to achieve the best possible outcomes for our patients.