Kamakshi Rao, PharmD, BCOP, CPC, FASHP, FHOPA is a Director of Pharmacy for Oncology and Infusion Services at the University of North Carolina Medical Center and an Adjunct Professor of Clinical Education at the UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy in Chapel Hill, NC. She completed her Doctor of Pharmacy Degree at the Rutgers University College of Pharmacy. She then completed a PGY1 Pharmacy Practice Residency at the VCU Health System and a 2-year Oncology and Clinical Research Fellowship at The Cancer Institute of New Jersey.

Dr. Rao initially worked as an oncology/investigational drug services pharmacist and BMT specialist at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania. In 2005, she joined the UNC Medical Center as an inpatient clinical specialist in leukemia/lymphoma/stem cell transplant. In 2012, she transitioned her practice into the ambulatory setting, establishing ambulatory clinical pharmacy services in the adult stem cell transplant clinic and pioneering a practice model focused on providing care across the practice continuum. Since 2014, Dr. Rao has served on the pharmacy administration team at UNC Medical Center, with roles overseeing academic/educational programs, clinical services, and operational areas. She returned to her oncology roots in 2024 to become the Director for Oncology and Infusion Pharmacy Services.

Dr. Rao's research and practice interests focus on educational advancement and workforce engagement. She is passionate about mentorship and training and is a certified professional leadership coach. She has a strong track record of organizational involvement and was recognized with the Lifetime Achievement from ASTCT for her service in leadership to that organization. She has served as a HOPA member for over 20 years and has supported multiple committees and working groups during her time as a member.