Dr. James Liang, medical oncologist at Southern Oncology Specialists, PLLC, is the kind of person who radiates quiet confidence and humble wisdom — the kind that comes not from chasing titles, but from a deep calling to serve.
“I grew up in Guang Zhou, China,” he shares, “and moved to Chapel Hill in middle school. My dad’s job brought us here, and I’ve considered myself a North Carolinian ever since.” A proud Tar Heel, Dr. Liang completed his undergraduate degree at UNC-Chapel Hill, where he also met his wife, Ashley. “She’s lovely,” he smiles. “We met while studying there — the kind of connection that just sticks.”
His path to medicine began with simple volunteer work. He spent time helping out at a cancer hospital during high school and college. “That’s when I fell in love with the doctor-patient relationship. It wasn’t just about medicine — it was about trust.”
Now living and practicing in the Lake Norman area, Dr. Liang unwinds by jogging, listening to music, or watching TV after long days. “I’m pretty introverted,” he says, “but I find peace in movement. Running is my form of meditation.” When time allows, he escapes to the mountains. “Asheville is a favorite, and Kona, Hawaii — that was unforgettable.”
His quiet demeanor doesn’t mask the grit it took to reach this point. “Medical training is a grind,” he admits. “There are no shortcuts — just taking it one day, one year at a time.” But through it all, he credits his parents for his foundation. “They taught me through their actions: humility, discipline, and being a person of your word.”
Dr. Liang carries with him a quote that reflects his approach to both medicine and life: “Listen and silent are spelled with the same letters.” And his advice to his younger self? “Slow down. Enjoy the scenery. Life happens whether you’re enjoying it or not.”
