Sean C Dougherty, MD

Sean Dougherty, MD, is an assistant professor of medicine at the University of Virginia School of Medicine and a thoracic medical oncologist who cares for patients with lung cancer and other malignancies of the chest.

A lifelong Virginian, Dr. Dougherty earned his Bachelor of Science degree from Virginia Tech before attending the Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine in Richmond. He moved to Charlottesville in 2019 and completed both his Internal Medicine residency and Hematology/Oncology fellowship at the University of Virginia. During his training, he also served as chief resident and chief fellow before joining the UVA faculty.

As a clinical investigator, Dr. Dougherty’s research focuses on developing novel treatments for non-small cell lung cancer and small cell lung cancer, primarily through clinical trials and other longitudinal studies. He has a particular interest in immune checkpoint inhibitors, the recognition and management of immune-related toxicities, bispecific T-cell engagers, and other forms of immunotherapy.

Dr. Dougherty considers it a privilege to be a medical oncologist and deeply values the relationships he develops with patients and their families as they navigate cancer care together. “My patients’ values remain at the forefront of the care I provide and help guide the decisions we make together,” he says. “Patients can expect that I will be upfront and honest with them and do everything I can to help them feel as well as possible throughout their care.”

Outside of work, Dr. Dougherty enjoys spending time outdoors, including fishing, playing golf, exploring hiking trails around Charlottesville and Shenandoah National Park, and spending time on the water on the Chesapeake Bay.