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Dr. James Rubenstein is a hematologist-oncologist, or a specialist in blood disorders. He has particular expertise in treating patients with neurologic complications from cancer, including patients with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma involving the brain (called central nervous system lymphoma). He also specializes in patients with cancer that has spread to the brain from other parts of the body.

In his research, Rubenstein investigates immunologic tools to improve tumor response to chemotherapy and radiation treatment, and to minimize toxicity from treatment. He is also interested in developing tumor biomarkers to diagnose brain tumors.

Rubenstein earned his medical degree at Weill Cornell Medicine and completed a residency in internal medicine at Stanford Medicine. He earned a doctorate in molecular and cellular neurosciences at the Rockefeller University. He completed a fellowship in hematology and oncology at UCSF, which included training in neuro-oncology.

Rubenstein has won research awards from the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society and the National Cancer Institute. He is a member of the American Society of Hematology, American Society of Clinical Oncology and American Association for Cancer Research.

  • Board Certifications

    American Board of Internal Med/Medical Oncology, Medical Oncology

  • Fellowships

    UCSF Medical Center - OMAG

  • Residencies

    Stanford University School of Medicine

  • Internship

    Stanford University School of Medicine

  • Degree

    MD, Cornell University at Ithaca

Where I see patients (1)

    My reviews

    4.9

    Overall Experience
    161 Ratings
    About our process
    Nov 13, 2025
    Best care provider in the world Dr can be considered as my best friend. I have a yellow puppy for him.
    Sep 18, 2025
    Dr. Rubenstien is a magnificent Doctor Who listens and gives me options and answers to what affects my health.
    Aug 14, 2025
    Best of Best Dr.
    Aug 07, 2025
    Dr. Rubenstein is the best!
    Jul 26, 2025
    I have had a twenty-year experience with Dr Rubinstein and feel that I wouldn't be alive without his clinical trial
    Jul 10, 2025
    Dr Rubinstein is the best he saved my life and my husband and I always enjoy our visits with him. He is very professional and caring. We'll be sad with my 6-month checkups ends.
    Apr 17, 2025
    I appreciate dr Rubenstein sooo much! I finally feel like I'm getting the care I need
    Mar 20, 2025
    Great experience
    Mar 05, 2025
    The Best!!!
    Feb 26, 2025
    The experience with my doctor was so good and so helpful. He is truly one of the best doctors I believe at UCSF. I am so blessed to have him/Dr. RubensteinIn my life as he has been helpful through my entire cancer journey.
    Jan 17, 2025
    There is no one on Earth can find in comparison to my provider
    Jan 17, 2025
    Dr. Rubenstein is a good person and a great doctor.
    Oct 13, 2024
    Dr.Rubenstein and his team are excellent to me
    Aug 15, 2024
    Excellent
    Jul 01, 2024
    Dr. Rubenstein was very helpful to immediately letting me know the results of my MRI and Blood test. He put me at ease very quickly. And I appreciate his answers to all my questions.
    Jun 20, 2024
    Dr. Rubenstein saved my life with his knowledge of PCNS Lymphoma. That's why heIs now known as Dr. Genius.
    May 04, 2024
    Dr Rubenstein is listening with carefully about my concerns always.
    Apr 11, 2024
    My care provider treated me like his family
    Mar 16, 2024
    My oncologist is always listening my concerns And spend well time with not only professional but empathy and compassion.
    Mar 12, 2024
    Was able to talk to the doctor at ease, easy to communicate

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