Spencer Behr

Dr. Spencer Behr is a radiologist with expertise in molecular imaging, radiation therapy and abdominal imaging. He has a special interest in radiomics, extracting data from medical images that can be used to better predict and assess a patient's response to cancer treatment.

Behr pursues translational research – applying laboratory findings to the development of medical therapies – on the use of molecular and hybrid imaging to better treat prostate cancer. He is particularly interested in new radiology techniques that combine PET scanning with CT or MRI. He has pursued research projects that involve collaboration among multiple departments, aiming to foster discussions among specialists of various disciplines and to optimize the impact of these studies on patient care.

Behr earned his medical degree from Tufts University School of Medicine. He completed a residency in diagnostic radiology at Lahey Hospital & Medical Center, serving as chief resident. At UCSF, he completed fellowships in abdominal imaging and nuclear medicine.

Behr enjoys mentoring medical students, residents and fellows, and has received national recognition for his excellence in teaching and mentoring. He serves as fellowship director for radiology and biomedical imaging, co-director of the Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center's Cancer Imaging Research Shared Resource and vice chair of UCSF's Committee on Rules & Jurisdiction.