phd in medical oncology

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PhD in Cancer Research

Search for solutions to one of medicine's greatest challenges with an innovative Cancer Research PhD from UNMC.

Why earn a PhD in Cancer Research?

Advancement in the detection and treatment of cancer continues to accelerate through ground-breaking research, yet cancer remains one of the most complex and challenging problems of biomedical research.

As a cancer researcher, you'll work to better understand the causes of cancer, and to find new ways to prevent, diagnose, and treat cancer.

We're in an exciting new dawn in biomedical science where we will see many cures previously deemed impossible.

Why earn a PhD in Cancer Research from UNMC?

Cancer research is a key area of research at UNMC, which features the National Cancer Institute-designated Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center. The Cancer Research Doctoral Program, offered through the Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases , is the cornerstone of our National Cancer Institute-supported Cancer Biology Training Program.

The Cancer Research Doctoral Program is one of the seven programs within the Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Biomedical Sciences and includes approximately 100 faculty from the Eppley Institute and other basic and clinical departments within UNMC. You'll work in state-of-the-art laboratories and participate in important cancer research with nationally and internationally renowned scientists.

Cancer researchers at UNMC are engaged in work that addresses the root causes of cancer, as well as the means of enhancing the detection and treatment. This research employs a wide range of animal and cellular model systems, includes both basic and translational research, and focuses heavily on the molecular basis of cancer. As a result, you'll receive broad-based training in all aspects of cancer biology and employ cutting-edge experimental approaches.

Our innovative program trains future scientists to approach cancer research knowledgeably and creatively and to enter careers in which they can make a significant contribution.

Program Snapshot

Education opportunities.

You'll receive advanced training in cancer research. We offer special courses on translational cancer research and grant writing and seminar presentation skills. You'll also have the chance to attend discussions of cancer cases by oncologists and participate in interdisciplinary clinical/basic cancer research groups.

Learn more about IGPBS

The Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases

The Eppley Institute is fighting cancer with some of the brightest minds in science. Faculty and students have access to state-of-the-art research equipment both within the Eppley Institute and in other shared on-campus facilities.

Careers & Outcomes

Program graduates are highly recruited for postdoctoral work in top laboratories at universities, government laboratories and private industry. Many graduates assume research or teaching careers in academia; others take research positions in biotechnology firms, government or pharmaceutical companies or in the health care or medical professions.

Recent Job Titles

• Senior Licensing Specialist
• Assistant Director of a Clinical Molecular Oncology Laboratory
• Director of Bioengineering
• Scientific Director
• Clinical Scientist
• Medical Resident

Recent Postdoctoral Fellowships

• Yale University
• Johns Hopkins University
• The Mayo Clinic
• Harvard University
• MD Anderson Cancer Center

Areas of Research

Causes of cancer.

This area of research includes evaluation of the genetic and environmental factors that contribute to cancer incidence, as well as cancer prevention. Research efforts include functional genomics, DNA damage and repair, nutrition and cancer, environmental risk factors, cancer genetics and animal models of cancer.

Molecular and Cellular Characteristics of Cancer

This research focuses on the differences in molecules and cells that help define cancer. The following avenues are taken in research at the molecular level: gene expression, signal transduction and structural biochemistry.

Diagnostics and Therapeutics

State-of-the-art technology couples with cutting-edge cancer research to identify new ways of diagnosing and treating cancer. Several research innovations are used, including high-throughput screening for novel anti-tumor drugs, analysis of unique clinical cancer resources, identification of new cancer biomarkers and immunotherapy.

Connect with Us

For more information, please contact Dr. Joyce Solheim ( [email protected] ) or Misty Pocwierz-Gaines ( [email protected] ) in the UNMC Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer & Allied Diseases.

Related Programs

Students interested in this program may wish to explore:

Hematology & Medical Oncology

Ruben Dries, PhD, MS

Assistant Professor of Medicine, Hematology & Medical Oncology

Christopher Heaphy

Assistant Professor of Medicine Hematology & Medical Oncology

Gareth Morgan

Research Assistant Professor Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine Dept of Medicine Hematology & Medical Oncology

Kim Vanuytsel, PhD

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Patient Care

INFORMATION FOR

• Residents & Fellows
• Researchers

David A. Braun, MD, PhD

Contact information.

• Appt 203.200.6622
• Email [email protected]

Patient Care Locations

• Prostate and Urologic Cancers Program Smilow Cancer Hospital at Yale New Haven 35 Park Street, Fl 4 New Haven, CT 06511 Appointments : 203.200.4822
• Melanoma Program Smilow Cancer Hospital at Yale New Haven 35 Park Street, Fl 8 New Haven, CT 06511 Appointments : 203.200.6622

Lab Location

• BraunLab 300 George Street, Fl 6th Floor, Ste Suite 6400 New Haven, CT 06511

Mailing Address

Yale School of Medicine

333 Cedar St, PO Box 208028

New Haven, CT 06520

United States

Research & Publications

• Medical Oncology

David Braun , MD, PhD, is an Assistant Professor of Medicine (Medical Oncology) and a member of the Center of Molecular and Cellular Oncology (CMCO) at Yale Cancer Center. Dr. Braun cares for patients with kidney cancers. He received his PhD in Computational Biology from the Courant Institute of Mathematical Science at New York University and his medical degree from Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. He completed his residency at the Brigham and Women’s Hospital where he received the Dunn Medical Intern Award and served as Chief Medical Resident before completing fellowship training in adult oncology through the Dana-Farber/Partners CancerCare program where he was appointed the Emil Frei Fellow and the John R. Svenson Fellow.

Dr. Braun joined Yale from Dana-Farber Cancer Institute where he was an Instructor in Medicine with clinical and scientific interest in understanding and improving immune therapies for kidney cancer. He has a longstanding interest in integrating experimental and computational approaches to biomedical research and is currently studying mechanisms of response and resistance to immune therapy in kidney cancer, with the goal of developing novel therapies. He continues this work as part of the CMCO, which fosters and mentors physician-scientists as they advance their laboratory-based research programs to bridge fundamental cancer biology with clinical investigation for the translation of basic discoveries into better treatments or diagnosis.

Education & Training

• Instructor Harvard Medical School (2021)
• Physician Dana-Farber Cancer Institute (2021)
• Postdoctoral Fellow Dana-Farber Cancer Institute / Harvard Medical School (2019)
• Chief Medical Resident Brigham and Women’s Hospital / Harvard Medical School (2017)
• Clinical Fellow Dana-Farber Cancer Institute / Massachusetts General Hospital / Brigham and Women’s Hospital / Harvard Medical School (2016)
• Resident Brigham and Women’s Hospital / Harvard Medical School (2015)
• Intern Brigham and Women’s Hospital / Harvard Medical School (2014)
• MD Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai (2013)
• PhD Courant Institute of Mathematical Sciences at New York University, Computational Biology (2012)
• AB Princeton University, Molecular Biology (2006)

Honors & Recognition

Professional service, departments & organizations.

• Cancer Immunology
• Center of Molecular and Cellular Oncology
• Computational Biology and Biomedical Informatics
• Human and Translational Immunology Program
• Internal Medicine
• Janeway Society
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• Cancer Biology, Ph.D.

The graduate program in cancer biology offers a course of study and research leading to the Ph.D. degree. Although a master’s degree is offered under special circumstances, students are not admitted for a master’s degree.

The Cancer Biology Graduate Program was established at the McArdle Laboratory for Cancer Research in 1940 as the first graduate program in the United States to offer a degree in basic cancer research. The program now includes more than 50 faculty trainers from multiple departments including Oncology, Medicine, Human Oncology, Cell and Regenerative Biology, Medical Microbiology and Immunology, and others. This interdepartmental structure offers students remarkably diverse training opportunities that span the entire breadth of cancer biology research from haploid or diploid genetics, viral and chemical carcinogenesis, eukaryotic cell and molecular biology, virology, molecular toxicology, and whole-animal carcinogenesis. Through the graduate curriculum, students are introduced to the body of knowledge that has been derived directly from experiments on the induction, properties, and therapy of cancer, and receive the necessary background to conduct independent research.

Curriculum requirements are designed to be flexible, providing a maximal opportunity for specialization within this multidisciplinary field. Students learn through core and elective courses; by participation in seminars, conferences, and journal clubs related to their specific areas of expertise; and most important, from their research advisors. Students who join the program select research advisors after conducting a minimum of three month-long rotations in different laboratories during the first semester. After choosing an advisor, students will also create an advisory committee of five faculty members who will provide guidance throughout the process of earning the Ph.D. degree. The average time to complete the Ph.D. is 5.5 years. The program prepares students for careers in teaching and research in academia, government, and industry.

Please consult the table below for key information about this degree program’s admissions requirements. The program may have more detailed admissions requirements, which can be found below the table or on the program’s website.

Graduate admissions is a two-step process between academic programs and the Graduate School. Applicants must meet the minimum requirements of the Graduate School as well as the program(s). Once you have researched the graduate program(s) you are interested in, apply online .

Students seeking admission to the program must complete a bachelor's degree in biology, biochemistry, chemistry, molecular biology, or a related area from an accredited college or university and should have a grade point average of at least 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale). The background of the student should include basic courses in these areas as well as several advanced courses in chemistry, microbiology, biochemistry, genetics, physiology, and molecular biology. Prior laboratory research experience is highly desirable.

Applicants must submit a completed application online, personal statement (reasons for graduate study), unofficial college transcripts, updated CV/resume (highlighting laboratory experience), and three letters of recommendation.

Graduate School Resources

Resources to help you afford graduate study might include assistantships, fellowships, traineeships, and financial aid.  Further funding information is available from the Graduate School. Be sure to check with your program for individual policies and restrictions related to funding.

Program Resources

The program is committed to ensure continuing financial support for all cancer biology Ph.D. students in good standing. Financial support includes a competitive stipend and tuition remission. All graduate students are also eligible for comprehensive health insurance. Ph.D. students are supported from a variety of different sources including research assistantships from faculty research grants, fellowships, and NIH training grants. There is no teaching requirement for cancer biology students; however, many opportunities exist on campus for those who wish to gain teaching experience.

Students are admitted into the Cancer Biology Program as a Research Assistant (RA) unless they have received a fellowship or training grant. Find more information here .

Minimum Graduate School Requirements

Major requirements.

Review the Graduate School minimum academic progress and degree requirements , in addition to the program requirements listed below.

MODE OF INSTRUCTION

Mode of instruction definitions.

Accelerated: Accelerated programs are offered at a fast pace that condenses the time to completion. Students typically take enough credits aimed at completing the program in a year or two.

Evening/Weekend: ​Courses meet on the UW–Madison campus only in evenings and/or on weekends to accommodate typical business schedules.  Students have the advantages of face-to-face courses with the flexibility to keep work and other life commitments.

Face-to-Face: Courses typically meet during weekdays on the UW-Madison Campus.

Hybrid: These programs combine face-to-face and online learning formats.  Contact the program for more specific information.

Online: These programs are offered 100% online.  Some programs may require an on-campus orientation or residency experience, but the courses will be facilitated in an online format.

  CURRICULAR REQUIREMENTS

Required courses .

The curriculum for Cancer Biology is designed to introduce you to research related to the induction, properties, and therapy of cancer and to ensure that you have the necessary background in one or more areas of related, fun­damental science to enable you to do original research.  Courses are drawn from the Department of Oncology as well as vari­ous related departments, including Bacteriology, Biochemistry, Biomolecular Chemistry, Chemistry, Genetics, Human Oncology, Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, and Pharmacology. 

The Graduate School at UW-Madison requires PhD students to complete a minimum of 51 credits in order to obtain a PhD Degree. These credits are fulfilled via core curriculum courses, 990 research, and electives. Courses numbered below 300, audit, and pass/fail do not satisfy the minimum requirement. It is suggested that you take approximately 2 courses per semester with the remaining credits being 990 research. All courses must be completed by the end of your second year, before completing the Preliminary Exam.

Beginning in your second year, you will be required to give an annual, formal presentation in the Cancer Biology Student/Postdoc Seminar Series. You will register for ONCOLOGY 901 Seminar  during the semester in which you present. Your seminars will be recorded and you will receive feedback from the seminar course instructor to help improve your public speaking and presentation skills.   Attendance at this seminar series is required . 

In addition, you are expected to attend the Cancer Biology Seminar throughout your graduate career (no registration required). The Cancer Biology Seminar, which features local and outside faculty speakers, is held on Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. in 1345 HSLC. The schedule is posted on the McArdle website .

Students will enroll in up to 12 credits per semester as pre-dissertators (only 2 credits during the summer term).

Students may select electives from the list below in consultation with their advisor.

Elective Coursework

Graduate school policies.

The  Graduate School’s Academic Policies and Procedures  provide essential information regarding general university policies. Program authority to set degree policies beyond the minimum required by the Graduate School lies with the degree program faculty. Policies set by the academic degree program can be found below.

Major-Specific Policies

Prior coursework, graduate work from other institutions.

With program approval, students are allowed to count no more than 9 credits of graduate coursework from other institutions. Coursework earned five or more years prior to admission to a master’s degree or doctoral degree is not allowed to satisfy requirements.

UW–Madison Undergraduate

With program approval, students are allowed to count no more than 7 credits numbered 300 or above from a UW–Madison undergraduate degree.

UW–Madison University Special

With program approval, students are allowed to count no more than 15 credits of coursework numbered 300 or above taken as a UW–Madison Special student. Coursework earned ten or more years prior to admission to a doctoral degree is not allowed to satisfy requirements.

A semester GPA below 3.0 or an incomplete grade (I) will result in the student being placed on academic probation. If a semester GPA of 3.0 is not attained or the Incomplete grade is not cleared during the subsequent semester of full- time enrollment, the student may be dismissed from the program or allowed to continue for 1 additional semester based on advisor appeal to the Graduate School.

ADVISOR / COMMITTEE

All students are required to have an advisor. Students must create a certification committee (advisor plus four additional faculty members) by the end of their first year. After passing their preliminary examination, students are required to conduct a progress report meeting with their certification committee each year. Failure to do so may result in a hold being placed on the student’s registration.

CREDITS PER TERM ALLOWED

Time constraints.

All doctoral students must pass their preliminary examination by the end of their second year (August 31). Under special circumstances, a one-semester extension may be granted when justified in writing by the student and advisor.

A candidate for a doctoral degree who fails to take the final oral examination and deposit the dissertation within five years after passing the preliminary examination may be required to take another preliminary examination and to be admitted to candidacy a second time.

Doctoral degree students who have been absent for ten or more consecutive years lose all credits that they have earned before their absence. Individual programs may count the coursework students completed prior to their absence for meeting program requirements; that coursework may not count toward Graduate School credit requirements.

grievances and appeals

These resources may be helpful in addressing your concerns:

• Bias or Hate Reporting  
• Graduate Assistantship Policies and Procedures
• Office of the Provost for Faculty and Staff Affairs
• Dean of Students Office (for all students to seek grievance assistance and support)
• Employee Assistance (for personal counseling and workplace consultation around communication and conflict involving graduate assistants and other employees, post-doctoral students, faculty and staff)
• Employee Disability Resource Office (for qualified employees or applicants with disabilities to have equal employment opportunities)
• Graduate School (for informal advice at any level of review and for official appeals of program/departmental or school/college grievance decisions)
• Office of Compliance (for class harassment and discrimination, including sexual harassment and sexual violence)
• Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards (for conflicts involving students)
• Ombuds Office for Faculty and Staff (for employed graduate students and post-docs, as well as faculty and staff)
• Title IX (for concerns about discrimination)

Grievance Policy for Graduate Programs in the School of Medicine and Public Health

Any student in a School of Medicine and Public Health graduate program who feels that they have been treated unfairly in regards to educational decisions and/or outcomes or issues specific to the graduate program, including academic standing, progress to degree, professional activities, appropriate advising, and a program’s community standards by a faculty member, staff member, postdoc, or student has the right to complain about the treatment and to receive a prompt hearing of the grievance following these grievance procedures. Any student who discusses, inquiries about, or participates in the grievance procedure may do so openly and shall not be subject to intimidation, discipline, or retaliation because of such activity. Each program’s grievance advisor is listed on the “Research” tab of the SMPH intranet .

This policy does not apply to employment-related issues for Graduate Assistants in TA, PA and/or RA appointments.  Graduate Assistants will utilize the Graduate Assistantship Policies and Procedures (GAPP) grievance process to resolve employment-related issues.

This policy does not apply to instances when a graduate student wishes to report research misconduct.  For such reports refer to the UW-Madison Policy for Reporting Research Misconduct for Graduate Students and Postdoctoral Research Associates .

Requirements for Programs

The School of Medicine and Public Health Office of Basic Research, Biotechnology and Graduate Studies requires that each graduate program designate a grievance advisor, who should be a tenured faculty member, and will request the name of the grievance advisor annually.  The program director will serve as the alternate grievance advisor in the event that the grievance advisor is named in the grievance.  The program must notify students of the grievance advisor, including posting the grievance advisor’s name on the program’s Guide page and handbook.

The grievance advisor or program director may be approached for possible grievances of all types.  They will spearhead the grievance response process described below for issues specific to the graduate program, including but not limited to academic standing, progress to degree, professional activities, appropriate advising, and a program’s community standards.  They will ensure students are advised on reporting procedures for other types of possible grievances and are supported throughout the reporting process.  Resources on identifying and reporting other issues have been compiled by the Graduate School.

• The student is advised to initiate a written record containing dates, times, persons, and description of activities, and to update this record while completing the procedures described below.
• If the student is comfortable doing so, efforts should be made to resolve complaints informally between individuals before pursuing a formal grievance.
• Should a satisfactory resolution not be achieved, the student should contact the program’s grievance advisor or program director to discuss the complaint. The student may approach the grievance advisor or program director alone or with a UW-Madison faculty or staff member. The grievance advisor or program director should keep a record of contacts with regards to possible grievances.  The first attempt is to help the student informally address the complaint prior to pursuing a formal grievance. The student is also encouraged to talk with their faculty advisor regarding concerns or difficulties.
• If the issue is not resolved to the student’s satisfaction, the student may submit a formal grievance to the grievance advisor or program director in writing, within 60 calendar days from the date the grievant first became aware of, or should have become aware of with the exercise of reasonable diligence, the cause of the grievance.  To the fullest extent possible, a grievance shall contain a clear and concise statement of the grievance and indicate the issue(s) involved, the relief sought, the date(s) the incident or violation took place, and any specific policy involved.
• The grievance advisor or program director will convene a faculty committee composed of at least three members to manage the grievance.  Any faculty member involved in the grievance or who feels that they cannot be impartial may not participate in the committee.  Committee composition should reflect diverse viewpoints within the program.
• The faculty committee, through the grievance advisor or program director, will obtain a written response from the person or persons toward whom the grievance is directed. The grievance advisor or program director will inform this person that their response will be shared with the student filing the grievance.
• The grievance advisor or program director will share the response with the student filing the grievance.
• The faculty committee will make a decision regarding the grievance. The committee’s review shall be fair, impartial, and timely.  The grievance advisor or program director will report on the action taken by the committee in writing to both the student and the person toward whom the grievance was directed.
• The grievant will be notified in writing, within 5 business days of the written appeal, acknowledging receipt of the formal appeal and establishing a timeline for the review to be completed.
• The senior associate dean or their designee may request additional materials and/or arrange meetings with the grievant and/or others.  If meetings occur, the senior associate dean or their designee will meet with both the grievant and the person or persons toward whom the grievance is directed.
• The senior associate dean or their designee will assemble an ad hoc committee of faculty from outside of the student’s graduate program and ask them to prepare a written recommendation on whether to uphold or reverse the decision of the program on the student’s initial grievance.  The committee may request additional materials and/or arrange meetings with the grievant and/or others.  If meetings occur, the committee will meet with both the grievant and the person or persons toward whom the grievance is directed.
• The senior associate dean or their designee will make a final decision within 20 business days of receipt of the committee’s recommendation.
• The SMPH Office of Basic Research, Biotechnology, and Graduate Studies must store documentation of the grievance for seven years. Grievances that set a precedent may be stored indefinitely.
• The student may file an appeal of the School of Medicine and Public Health decision with the Graduate School.  See the Grievances and Appeals section of the Graduate School’s Academic Policies and Procedures .

Time Limits

Steps in the grievance procedures must be initiated and completed within the designated time periods except when modified by mutual consent. If the student fails to initiate the next step in the grievance procedure within the designated time period, the grievance will be considered resolved by the decision at the last completed step.

Take advantage of the Graduate School's  professional development resources to build skills, thrive academically, and launch your career. 

• Articulates research problems, potentials, and limits with respect to theory, knowledge, or practice within the field of study.
• Formulates ideas, concepts, designs, and/or techniques beyond the current boundaries of knowledge within the field of study.
• Creates research, scholarship, or performance that makes a substantive contribution.
• Demonstrates breadth within their learning experiences.
• Advances contributions of the field of study to society.
• Communicates complex ideas in a clear and understandable manner.
• Fosters ethical and professional conduct.

For the most current list of faculty and descriptions of their research interests, visit the  program website .

• Requirements
• Professional Development
• Learning Outcomes

Contact Information

Cancer Biology Program, McArdle Laboratory for Cancer Research School of Medicine and Public Health [email protected] cancerbiology.wisc.edu

Hilary Gehin, Graduate Program Manager [email protected] 608-262-4682 6435 Wisconsin Institutes for Medical Research

Eric Johannsen, Director of Graduate Studies [email protected]

Grievance Advisor, Lisa Arendt, Associate Professor [email protected]

Grievance Advisor, Shigeki Miyamoto, Professor [email protected]

Graduate Program Handbook View Here

Graduate School grad.wisc.edu

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Training the next generation of cancer researchers

Program Overview

The Cancer Biology program spans many disciplines, including cell biology, genetics, biochemistry, microbiology, pharmacology, pathology, epidemiology, bioinformatics, and immunology, to name a few. It represents a unique set of training and educational activities that, taken collectively, expose the student to the full breadth of cancer biology while allowing immersion in a specific dissertation topic of the student’s choice.

Faculty in the Program are interested in a number of topic areas, including: Cancer genetics; Cancer epigenetics; Tumor immunology; Cell biology; Epidemiology; Pathology; Tumor metabolism; Bioinformatics; Cancer drug discovery.

Projects range from fundamental studies of basic biological processes to translational research aiming to move basic findings into the clinic.

Apply through our PIBS application

Students in the Cancer Biology program are required to take core courses in Cancer Biology and Bioinformatics. PIBS core courses should be taken to fill gaps in knowledge or together with other electives, to strengthen a student’s knowledge base in an area of interest. Students are also required to participate in the Cancer Biology Seminar Series for the duration of their time in the program. The Cancer Biology Seminar Series course provides not only continued exposure to the breadth of cancer research but also experience in honing seminar presentation skills.

Preliminary Examination

The preliminary exam consists of two checkpoints. The first is a didactic exam that evaluates students’ understanding of the fundamentals of cancer biology. This exam will take place in May at the end of the first year in order to advance to PhD candidacy. The second checkpoint takes place in the winter semester of the second year and is comprised of two steps, the writing of a written research proposal (NIH format) and the oral presentation of the proposal to the preliminary exam committee.

Teaching Requirement

There are no formal requirements for teaching in the Cancer Biology program. However, opportunities exist for senior students to serve as teaching assistants for one term of the introductory cancer biology class. In addition, students with an interest in teaching are encouraged to pursue the U-M Graduate Teaching Certificate as a way to prepare themselves for careers that will involve college-level teaching.

Students help organize the annual Cancer Biology retreat, including selecting the keynote speaker. This fun and informal setting gives students, postdocs, and faculty the opportunity to present their research, generate collaborations, and receive feedback. Trainees and faculty give oral presentations and all members of our cancer research community are invited to deliver poster presentations. The retreat is a great opportunity for first year PIBS and MSTP students to explore the research and meet students and faculty in the Cancer Biology program.

Research Seminar/Journal Club

The Cancer Biology Graduate Program sponsors a weekly seminar program that runs through the academic year. Students are encouraged to nominate and host external cancer researchers whose work they find exciting and cutting edge. Senior students participate by giving oral presentations on their research progress and second year students give journal clubs highlighting the research of invited speakers.

Social Events

During the summer, students get together for a picnic and canoe trip that includes the summer undergraduate research students. At the beginning of the academic year, the program director hosts an orientation dinner for all to welcome the new students. There is an annual year-end holiday party along with monthly happy hours for students to relax in an informal setting.

Extracurricular

Students are involved in a variety of activities outside of lab. Many students give back to the community through educational and community outreach programs. Cancer Biology students have fun by attending sporting events, participating in outdoor activities, club sports, and arts/crafts events, and enjoying food/drink and museums – all which Ann Arbor offers.

The impact of cancer on all our lives emphasizes the need to continue training individuals to pursue research into its cure and prevention. The ongoing investment of the National Cancer Institute and non-governmental funding organizations including the American Cancer Society, The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, and others, means that research at universities and research institutes will remain a high priority, thereby providing jobs for cancer researchers with doctoral degrees. The complexity of cancer leads to the unfortunate realization that it will take many years to unlock all of its mysteries, resulting in a long-term need for persons trained in the field.

Besides the tremendous investment in basic cancer research at universities and non-profit organizations, the development of new therapeutic modalities for cancer represents a large percentage of pharmaceutical company expenditures. According to IMS Health, the global oncology market was growing at 6.8% overall in 2011, double that number in the pharmaceutical sector. In 2013, the worth of the market was approximately $75 billion just in the US. Given this huge investment in cancer research, the job market for individuals with doctoral degrees in cancer biology is very large and growing.

Learn more about the Department of Cancer Biology.

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Cancer Biology

Application process.

The Sheila and David Fuente Graduate Program in Cancer Biology is a university-wide interdisciplinary training program that draws upon clinical and basic sciences from multiple departments and medical school divisions of the University of Miami.

The scientific focus is cancer research, emphasizing fundamental cellular processes, the deregulation in cancer, and the identification of novel diagnostics and therapeutic targets. In addition to training in technical aspects, the curriculum places a strong emphasis on scientific reasoning as the most essential and portable aspect of Ph.D. training.

The cross-disciplinary training includes novel concepts and state-of-the-art techniques of molecular biology, biochemistry, genetics, genomics, proteomics, structural biology, cell biology, pharmacology, and molecular medicine. This training is integrated into the extensive clinical and translational research programs of Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center.

Research in cancer biology stands out by the scale and rate at which basic science translates into tangible changes in the treatment of patients. At the same time, information flows back rapidly from the clinic to direct the next frontier in basic science and innovation.

To make maximum use of this exciting research environment, scientists need training in the relevant clinical concepts to translate questions and research needs back into their setting and to engage in collaborative efforts. Cancer biology graduate students receive guidance from both a research mentor and a physician mentor to facilitate this training. The research mentor is the dissertation advisor. The physician mentor provides a clinical perspective in cancer biology, including issues of diagnosis, management, and treatment of cancer patients and clinical research.

Key Areas of Research

Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center

The U was a phenomenal fit for me due to the culture of diversity and acceptance, academic excellence and scientific ambition. The close relationship with SCCC allows for a real bench-to-bedside perspective by giving access to clinical grand rounds, tumor boards and direct mentorship by clinicians in the field.

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Ryan H. Moy, MD, PhD

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Dr. Ryan Moy is an Assistant Professor of Medicine and medical oncologist at Columbia University Irving Medical Center where he specializes in the treatment of gastrointestinal malignancies, with a focus on esophageal and stomach cancers. He received his MD/PhD from the University of Pennsylvania and completed internship and residency training in Internal Medicine at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center. He then completed fellowship training in Medical Oncology at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and postdoctoral research at The Rockefeller University.

Dr. Moy is actively involved in translational research to understand the biological mechanisms that regulate metastasis, the primary driver of mortality in gastrointestinal cancers. He has performed laboratory-based research to define critical genes that promote liver metastasis in colorectal cancer. He is also conducting research to discover key vulnerabilities in esophageal and gastric cancers, with the goal of translating these findings from the lab to develop more effective treatments for patients. As an active member of the gastrointestinal oncology and experimental therapeutics groups, Dr. Moy is involved in developing and leading clinical trials investigating novel targeted and immunotherapy treatments for esophagogastric cancer and other malignancies. His work has been recognized by several awards including a Damon Runyon Cancer Research Foundation Fellow Award and a National Cancer Institute (NCI) K08 Career Development Award.

Dr. Moy works as part of a multidisciplinary team with the mission of delivering compassionate and state-of-the-art oncologic care to each patient, using a precision medicine approach to provide innovative and promising treatments.

Academic Appointments

• Assistant Professor of Medicine at CUMC

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• NewYork-Presbyterian / Columbia University Irving Medical Center

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Inaugural Clinical Trialist Scholar Award Goes to Six Outstanding Early Career Investigators

State of stomach cancer research and care: q+a with drs. ryan moy and sam yoon.

Ph.D. in Molecular Cancer Biology

General info.

• Faculty working with students: 41
• Students: 34
• Part time study available: No
• Application terms: Fall
• Application deadline: November 30

Ann Marie Pendergast Director of Graduate Studies University Program in Molecular Cancer Biology Box 3813 Duke University Medical Center Durham, NC 27710

Phone: (919) 613-8600

Emails: [email protected] ,  [email protected]

Website:  https://pcb.duke.edu/education-training/molecular-cancer-biology-phd-program

Program Description

The molecular cancer biologists at Duke University seek to understand the complex regulatory mechanisms that govern mammalian cell growth and differentiation, discern how these mechanisms are perturbed in malignant cells, and how our knowledge of these regulatory mechanisms might lead to improved anti-cancer therapy. This research covers the boundaries of disciplines such as pharmacology, biochemistry, molecular biology, genetics, genomics and cell biology, and has increased our knowledge of the basic mechanisms underlying growth regulation. To understand how and why these mechanisms fail, and how their failure results in the initiation of cancer requires an understanding of the molecules involved in chemically and cellularly precise terms, so as to decipher their ultimate impact on the growth and development of the organism.

The Program in Molecular Cancer Biology includes faculty from thirteen (13) participating departments. Program scientists are actively engaged in dissecting the regulatory networks that control the processes of growth and development at the cellular and molecular levels, and the defects that lead to oncogenic transformation. The approaches used by the investigators range from classical genetics and genomics to cell and molecular biology and protein biochemistry. An ultimate goal is identifying novel candidates for therapeutic intervention of oncogenesis. Graduate training in this program is greatly enhanced by the interaction between investigators.

Molecular Cancer Biology Program Goals:

• To train students in creative and innovative approaches to dissecting the regulatory networks that control the molecular, cellular and organismic processes required for tumor progression and metastasis. 
• The approaches used include genomics, proteomics, genetics, bioinformatics, state-of-the art omics technologies, cell biology, molecular biology and protein biochemistry.
• A major goal is to identify novel candidates for therapeutic intervention in the treatment of cancer.
• Graduate training in this program is greatly enhanced by the collaborative interactions among investigators across the University and the School of Medicine.
• The curricula are designed to provide a strong foundation in cancer biology while maintaining flexibility to pursue elective courses tailored for the student’s future research interests.
• Molecular Cancer Biology: PhD Admissions and Enrollment Statistics
• Molecular Cancer Biology: PhD Completion Rate Statistics
• Molecular Cancer Biology: PhD Time to Degree Statistics
• Molecular Cancer Biology: PhD Career Outcomes Statistics

Application Information

Application Terms Available:  Fall

Application Deadline:  November 30

Graduate School Application Requirements See the Application Instructions page for important details about each Graduate School requirement.

• Transcripts: Unofficial transcripts required with application submission; official transcripts required upon admission
• Letters of Recommendation: 3 Required
• Statement of Purpose: Required
• Résumé: Required
• GRE Scores – GRE General: Optional This program does not require applicants to provide GRE (Graduate Record Examination) or other graduate entrance exam scores, but does allow you to upload scores if you feel they enhance your application. If you choose to submit test scores, you may enter them on the Test Scores page. If you choose to enter self-reported test scores, official test scores will become a required component of your application.
• English Language Exam: TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test required* for applicants whose first language is not English *test waiver may apply for some applicants
• GPA: Undergraduate GPA calculated on 4.0 scale required

Department-Specific Application Requirements (submitted through online application)

Writing Sample None required

Additional Components Optional Video Essay: How would a Duke PhD training experience help you achieve your academic and professional goals? Max video length 2 minutes; record externally and provide URL in application.

We strongly encourage you to review additional department-specific application guidance from the program to which you are applying: Departmental Application Guidance

List of Graduate School Programs and Degrees

Oncology MPhil/PhD

London, Bloomsbury

When you study an oncology research degree at the UCL Cancer Institute, you join a supportive and intellectually rigorous environment to develop your research skills, subject knowledge, and critical review abilities. Our excellent facilities, supervision and training opportunities prepare students for careers in academia, industry, business, biomedicine, and healthcare.

UK tuition fees (2024/25)

Overseas tuition fees (2024/25), programme starts, applications accepted.

• Entry requirements

A minimum of an upper second-class UK Bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard.

The English language level for this programme is: Level 3

UCL Pre-Master's and Pre-sessional English courses are for international students who are aiming to study for a postgraduate degree at UCL. The courses will develop your academic English and academic skills required to succeed at postgraduate level.

Further information can be found on our English language requirements page.

Equivalent qualifications

Country-specific information, including details of when UCL representatives are visiting your part of the world, can be obtained from the International Students website .

International applicants can find out the equivalent qualification for their country by selecting from the list below. Please note that the equivalency will correspond to the broad UK degree classification stated on this page (e.g. upper second-class). Where a specific overall percentage is required in the UK qualification, the international equivalency will be higher than that stated below. Please contact Graduate Admissions should you require further advice.

About this degree

Oncology is one of five research departments within the Cancer Institute. We cover areas such as antibody-based medicines, the research and development of cancer drugs, head and neck cancers, treatment resistance, urological cancer biology, cancer metastasis, glioblastoma research, and tumour immunogenomics.

You will develop your research hypothesis with your supervisors, and undertake novel laboratory, bioinformatic or clinical research as part of their research team. You will be supported by a supervisory team including your principal supervisor, and a thesis committee which comprises a secondary supervisor and one to three committee members.

Developing your knowledge and skills is a core priority for us. In addition to UCL ' s Doctoral Skills Programme, the Cancer Institute runs a compulsory first-year training programme to improve your research skills and provide networking opportunities.

This programme is based in London and is available on a full-time or part-time basis.

Who this course is for

We welcome high achieving students from all over the world who want to join a world-class centre to undertake research in oncology. Our students come from a wide range of backgrounds, including clinicians, scientists, bio-informaticians and others interested in oncology research.

What this course will give you

• A unique opportunity to work in a collaborative research environment that spans basic research, translational medicine, and clinical applications.
• Close links with associated clinical trials facilities, experimental cancer medicine centre, biobanking facilities and associated partners and hospitals in London such as the Royal Free Hospital, UCLH, and Cancer Research UK and the Crick Institute.
• Skills development, including bench and technical skills, critical evaluation of scientific literature, experimental planning and design, interpretation of data results, presentation/public speaking skills, time and project management, working within a team, working independently, and writing for various audiences.

The foundation of your career

Our excellent facilities, supervision and training opportunities prepare you for future careers in academia, research companies, industry, business, biomedicine, and healthcare.

Employability

Graduates go on to further medical training or clinical posts, or to academic posts at institutions including universities around the world.

They have also found employment in laboratory management, research, industry, clinical trials co-ordination, scientific writing and editing, sales, and consulting.

The programme is designed to give you networking opportunities throughout your period of study.

These include weekly internal divisional seminars, fortnightly external speaker seminars and reception, and student poster sessions. You will also attend the annual Cancer Institute Conference, as well as national and international research conferences, and academic careers days.

On graduating, you will be able to join the institute's alumni network on LinkedIn.

Teaching and learning

Most of your research will be carried out independently. There will also be a series of training requirements that you will need to complete in the early stages of the programme.

All research students attend a training programme on lab skills from January to July in the first year. This covers:

• Human Tissue Act and the Biobank
• Tissue Preparation and Staining
• Basics of Proteomics
• Principles of Good Clinical Lab Practice
• Clinical Trial Design and Regulation
• In vivo Study Design and Regulation
• Preclinical Radiotherapy
• Single Cell Analysis.

Your first milestone will be to upgrade from MPhil to the PhD degree. For this, you will submit and present a report. In your final year, you submit a thesis covering your research and discuss this at a formal interview known as a viva examination.

Most of your time will be spent conducting independent research, alongside regular meetings with your supervisory team and completing your training requirements. We also encourage you to attend relevant research events at UCL and elsewhere.

Research areas and structure

• Antibody Based Medicines
• Cancer Drug Development
• Drug-DNA Interactions
• Molecular Oncology
• Tumour Biology on Therapeutic Response

Research environment

UCL is a top-rated university in the UK for research strength in the Research Excellence Framework (REF 2021). Our scientists have an international reputation for leading basic, translational, and clinical cancer research and the Cancer Institute is uniquely positioned to leverage the multidisciplinary nature of UCL by engaging a range of disciplines to transform cancer research.

You will join a community of over 300 research scientists and 120 research students within the Cancer Institute. Our combination of fundamental cancer research, clinical links with UCLH, and the Royal Free Hospitals, and collaborative links with the Crick Institute and Cancer Research UK, make the Cancer Institute an exciting environment for basic and translational research into cancer.

The Department of Oncology has a range of research including:

• Cancer Research UK Drug-DNA Interactions
• Cell Signalling
• Chromosome Instability Research Group
• HPV Tumour Biology Team
• Head and Neck Cancers
• Head and Neck Cancer Biology Group
• The Cell Communication Lab
• Treatment Resistance Group
• Urological Cancer Biology Group
• Cancer Genome Evolution Research Group
• Cancer Metastasis Lab
• Computational Cancer Genomics
• Glioblastoma Research Group
• Tumour Immunogenomics and Immunosurveillance Lab

We encourage you to become part of the community and to present and discuss your work at research team meetings, Institute Research in Progress talks, the annual Cancer Institute conference and Research Student poster day. You will also be encouraged to present at relevant international conferences and, where appropriate, to contribute towards scientific publications in your field.

The duration of a full-time research degree is usually three to four years. You register initially for the MPhil degree.

Within three months of joining the programme, you are expected to agree the basic structure of your research project with your supervisor, along with an appropriate research method and a realistic plan of work. You produce and submit a detailed outline of your proposed research to your supervisor and thesis committee for their comments and feedback.

You will then undertake this project as part of your supervisor’s research team. Training workshops at the Cancer Institute will run from January to October.

In your second year, you continue to explore your research hypothesis and collect and analyse novel data. You will also be expected to upgrade from an MPhil to a PhD.

To complete your upgrade, you submit a report summarising your research to date, and present and answer questions about this work at a viva voce examination. You also present your research to the department at a Research in Progress seminar.

In your third year, you complete your data collection and analysis, and prepare your thesis. You will also be encouraged to present your findings at an international conference or annual Cancer Institute conference.

Following the third year, you may be eligible for a year of 'completing research status' to complete your thesis and to take your viva examination.

The duration of a part-time research degree is usually five years. You register initially for the MPhil degree.

Within five months of joining the programme, you are expected to agree the basic structure of your research project with your supervisor, along with an appropriate research method and a realistic plan of your work. You will produce and submit a detailed outline of your proposed research to your supervisor and thesis committee for comments and feedback.

In your second and third years (18-36 months), you will continue to explore your research hypothesis and collect and analyse novel data. You will also be expected to upgrade from an MPhil to a PhD.

To complete your upgrade, you submit a report summarising your research to date, and then present and answer questions about this work at a viva voce examination. You also present your research to the department at a Research in Progress seminar.

In your fourth and fifth years, you complete your data collection and analysis, and prepare your thesis. You will also be encouraged to present your findings at an international conference or annual Cancer Institute conference.

Following the fifth year, you may be eligible to transfer to 'completing research status' for two years to complete your thesis writing and to undertake your viva examination.

Accessibility

Details of the accessibility of UCL buildings can be obtained from AccessAble accessable.co.uk . Further information can also be obtained from the UCL Student Support and Wellbeing team .

Fees and funding

Fees for this course.

The tuition fees shown are for the year indicated above. Fees for subsequent years may increase or otherwise vary. Where the programme is offered on a flexible/modular basis, fees are charged pro-rata to the appropriate full-time Master's fee taken in an academic session. Further information on fee status, fee increases and the fee schedule can be viewed on the UCL Students website: ucl.ac.uk/students/fees .

Additional costs

Students receive a free printing allowance each year and pay for any additional printing ( see details ). You may also face additional expenses if you attend conferences. The cost depends on the location, exchange rates, and the price of travel and accommodation, but this may be between £200 and £500 per event, based on typical events / destinations attended by recent students. The Cancer Institute provides two competitive travel scholarships each year to support research students attending training workshops or international conferences.

If you are doing a wet lab project, there may be an Additional Fee Element (AFE, also known as bench fees). This is an additional annual cost related to consumables, equipment or materials based on your individual project. This is payable by your sponsor, or yourself, if self-funding. These additional costs depend on the project and will be the same for home and overseas students.

The Cancer Institute provides some competitive travel scholarships to support research students attending training workshops or international conferences.

For more information on additional costs for prospective students please go to our estimated cost of essential expenditure at Accommodation and living costs .

Funding your studies

Annual CR-UK funded clinical fellowships and non-clinical PhD studentships are available. Please check the Cancer Institute website for details. Other funded studentships will also be advertised on the Institute's website as they become available. Some of our students seek funding from their home country or cancer charities.

For a comprehensive list of the funding opportunities available at UCL, including funding relevant to your nationality, please visit the Scholarships and Funding website .

Your first steps are to find a supervisor and funding before applying. You should check both the UCL and the Cancer Institute's studentships to apply for specific projects with grants. You can also reach out directly to any potential supervisor, particularly if you have funding in place from another source. You can identify Principal Investigators via the Cancer Institute website and research them individually. If you need help, please see applying for graduate research study or contact the Admissions Tutor on [email protected].

You can apply at any time. However, there are three entry points over the year. Deadlines and start dates are usually dictated by funding arrangements and supervisor availability, so discuss this with your supervisors.

Please note that you may submit applications for a maximum of two graduate programmes (or one application for the Law LLM) in any application cycle.

Choose your programme

Please read the Application Guidance before proceeding with your application.

Year of entry: 2024-2025

Got questions get in touch.

Cancer Institute

[email protected]

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University of Wisconsin Hematology Research Training Program (T32)

About our program.

The University of Wisconsin Hematology Research Training Program trains MD and PhD candidates to become independent investigators in hematology. The program is tailored to each trainee's career goals, emphasizes multidisciplinary approaches in both basic and clinical research, and provides instruction in the responsible conduct of science .

We strongly encourage underrepresented minorities to apply for pre- and post-doctoral training positions.

This program is funded by a National Institutes of Health (NIH)/National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) Kirschstein National Research Service Award (T32 HL07899).

How to Apply

Predoctoral positions:

• Admission to a graduate program at the University of Wisconsin-Madison
• Commitment to a laboratory within a PhD or MD-PhD program
• Must be U.S. citizen or permanent resident (green card)

Postdoctoral Positions:

• Possess MD, PhD, MD-PhD or equivalent degree
• Commitment to 2 years of training
• Payback obligation incurred during the initial 12 months of support

Send a letter of inquiry describing your career goals, your CV, and the additional materials below to:

John P. Sheehan, MD, Principal Investigator c/o David Smith 600 Highland Ave. Box: 5669 Madison, WI 53792 Email: [email protected]

Additional required application materials:

• Nominating letter from a Training Faculty member
• Brief statement of research interests (1 page)
• GRE or MCAT scores
• Undergraduate and graduate transcripts

Postdoctoral positions:

• Letters of recommendation (2)
• Brief statement of research interests/career plan (1-2 pages)

Current Fellows

Lauren Banaszak, MD

Post-doctoral trainee Mentor:  Jane Churpek, MD, MS

Ravi Chandra Yada

Pre-doctoral trainee Mentor:   David Beebe, PhD

Trey Gilpin

Post-doctoral trainee Mentor:  Daniel Matson, MD, PhD

Corinne Moss

Pre-doctoral trainee Mentor:  Joshua Coon, PhD

Pre-doctoral trainee Mentor:   Emery Bresnick, PhD

Graduate Success

View list of all graduates and publications (PDF)

John Sheehan, MD

Program Director

Faculty Mentors

• David J. Beebe, MD, PhD , Department of Biomedical Engineering
• Emery Bresnick, PhD , Department of Cell and Regenerative Medicine
• Jason Cantor, PhD , Department of Biochemistry
• Christian Capitini, MD , Department of Pediatrics
• Jane Churpek, MD , Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Medical Oncology and Palliative Care
• Joshua Coon, PhD , Department of Biomolecular Chemistry
• Jing Fan, PhD , Department of Nutritional Sciences
• Jacques Galipeau, MD, Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Medical Oncology and Palliative Care
• Jenny Gumperz, PhD , Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology
• Anna Huttenlocher, MD , Department of Pediatrics
• Shannon Kenney, PhD,  Department of Human Oncology
• Bruce Klein, MD , Departments of Pediatrics, Medicine and Medical Microbiology and Immunology
• Bo Liu, PhD , Department of Surgery
• Ryan Mattison, MD , Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Medical Oncology and Palliative Care
• Jeniel Nett, MD, PhD , Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Disease
• Lixin Rui, PhD , Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Medical Oncology and Palliative Care
• John Sheehan, MD , Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Medical Oncology and Palliative Care
• Miriam Shelef, MD, PhD , Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology
• Igor Sluvkin, MD, PhD , Department of Pathology
• Paul Sondel, MD, PhD , Department of Pediatrics
• Owen Tamplin, PhD , Department of Cell and Regenerative Biology
• Elizabeth Wright, PhD , Department of Biochemistry
• Jing Zhang, PhD , Department of Human Oncology

Program Details

Our program emphasizes pre- and post-doctoral training in  vascular biology  and  hematopoetic stem cells and malignancy . Vascular biology is critically important for human disease, impacting such basic processes as inflammation, the immune response, hemostasis, thrombosis, and metastasis.

We have assembled expertise in cellular and molecular aspects of hemostasis, extracellular matrix biology, vasculogenesis/angiogenesis, cellular mechanisms of inflammation, the genetics of diabetes, lipoprotein metabolism, and clinical aspects if hemophilic and thrombophilic states.

Likewise, hematopoetic stem cells are important to therapeutic approaches in a variety of disease states, and the University of Wisconsin is an internationally recognized leader in embryonic stem cell biology.

We provide the multidisciplinary training required to pursue translational research opportunities, and formal training for clinical investigators.

Clinical trainees may take advantage of the NIH-funded  UW Institute for Clinical & Translational Research (ICTR) , which provides didactic training in biostatistics, epidemiology, clinical trial design, and practical skills such as scientific and grant writing.

All trainees should complete an Individual Development Plan (IDP) . This tool helps you:

• assess your current skills and strengths
• make a plan for developing skills that will help you meet both your academic and professional goals
• communicate with your advisors and mentors about your evolving goals and related skills

See also: "NIH Encourages Institutions to Develop Individual Development Plans for Graduate Students and Postdoctoral Researchers"

Research Facilities:

• Cardiovascular Research Center
• Clinical Research Services and Networks
• Carbone Cancer Center  (NCI designated)
• Wisconsin National Primate Research Center  (NIH-funded and the only of its kind in the Midwest) 
• Wisconsin Institute of Medical Research (WIMR)

Education Programs:

• Adult Hematology/Oncology Fellowship
• Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Fellowship
• UW-Madison Graduate School
• UW School of Medicine and Public Health MD-PhD program

UW Health Bone Marrow Transplant Program

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How immuno-oncology is changing cancer care by harnessing the power of patients’ natural defenses

Immunotherapy innovation is saving the lives of cancer patients across the country, while researchers continue to break new ground in this growing oncology field.

When Sameek Roychowdhury, MD, PhD, began his career as a cancer physician and scientist in the early 2000s, the field of immuno-oncology was in its early stages and didn’t look incredibly promising. There were few signs of progress, but researchers stayed the course.

“We needed a fine-tuned approach rather than a sledgehammer,” Roychowdhury says.

The turning point began with the successful completion of the human genome project in 2003. The ability to genetically sequence tumors and find specific mutations causing cancer was a game changer. Once mutations were identified, a challenge Roychowdhury describes as “finding a needle in a haystack,” effective immunotherapy drugs could be developed.

Click here to learn more about immunotherapy innovation at the OSUCCC – James. https://cancer.osu.edu/for-patients-and-caregivers/learn-about-cancers-and-treatments/innovation-at-the-james/immunotherapy .

In the years since, immuno-oncologists have been hard at work in labs across the globe, conducting groundbreaking research that includes partnerships with patients and investments in new technology.

Clinical trials

In his lab at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute , Roychowdhury and his team have discovered genetic mutations and collaborated with other scientists and pharmaceutical companies to develop treatments and clinical trials that allow patients’ immune systems to detect and attack cancer cells that had been able to “hide” from more traditional therapies.

“Why do we harness the power of the immune system? It has memory, it’s adaptable and there are so many ways to utilize it to fight and prevent cancer,” Roychowdhury says. “Everything we do — every project, every idea, every grant, every publication and clinical trial — starts with and comes back to our patients.”

Learn more about cancer clinical trials at The James: https://cancer.osu.edu/for-patients-and-caregivers/learn-about-cancers-and-treatments/innovation-at-the-james/clinical-trials .

T cell therapy

T cells can provide natural defenses against some forms of cancer by locating and destroying harmful cells, but they can sometimes be “outsmarted,” according to Richard Wu, MD, PhD.

“The bodies of some patients can be very hostile microenvironments for T cells,” Wu says. “The T cells can’t differentiate between cancer cells and healthy cells and become the potent cancer fighters they’re supposed to be.”

Wu and other Ohio State immuno-oncologists are taking on this challenge through a novel treatment called tumor infiltrating therapy (TIL), which involves the extraction of T cells from patients that are then expanded to billions in the lab. The cells are reinfused into the patients, where they are better equipped to find and fight cancer cells.

“The process will make the cells stronger and smarter and better able to differentiate between cancer cells and healthy cells,” Wu says. “This is a very personalized form of immunotherapy.”

Learn more about TIL therapy research underway at The James: https://cancer.osu.edu/news/cell-therapy-approach-harnesses-the-immune-system-in-a-different-way-to-stop-cancer .

Investing in the future of immuno-oncology

Immunotherapy has become a pillar of cancer care and research at Ohio State, where the OSUCCC – James’ Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology (PIIO) launched to house a dedicated team of experts focused on developing new treatments and techniques.

“Together, we’re gaining greater knowledge of how the immune system works, and we’re using this knowledge to exploit weaknesses in cancer cells and tumors so we can turn laboratory discoveries into bedside treatments,” says Zihai Li, MD, PhD, the founding director of the PIIO.

Commitment to immuno-oncology has already led to advancements in the treatment of a number of conditions, including lung cancer, the leading cause of cancer-related deaths.

“I’ve seen lung cancer patients who have completed immunotherapy treatment and have had a beautiful response and normal quality of life,” says David Carbone, MD, PhD. “Years later, they’re still doing fine without any additional cancer therapy, which is something that was never really heard of in the old days.”

Learn more about the Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology at The Ohio State University. https://cancer.osu.edu/for-cancer-researchers/research/research-institutes-and-centers/pelotonia-institute-for-immuno-oncology .

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Stanford Certificate Program in Medical Physics

Message from certificate program director.

The Medical Physics Certificate Program (MPCP) is a rigorous two-year (CAMPEP-accreditation pending) didactic training program , meticulously designed and administered by the Departments of Radiation Oncology & Radiology at Stanford University School of Medicine. The curriculum covers essential medical physics topics, aligning with AAPM guidelines and including courses in Medical Physics and Dosimetry, Radiation Therapy Physics, Radiation Biology and Protection, Imaging and Image-Based Anatomy, and Medical Imaging Systems  l & ll. Courses are taught by experienced faculty from the departments of Radiation Oncology and Radiology, bringing real-world expertise to the classroom. The program is passionately committed to equipping students with the scientific knowledge needed for advanced studies, research, and successful careers in clinical medical physics. The program aims to foster in-depth understanding of patient safety, proficiency in physics and mathematics, ethical professionalism, effective communication skills, and a holistic perspective on medical physics. Join us on your journey to becoming a highly skilled and sought-after medical physicist!

*The certificate program is currently CAMPEP accreditation pending.

Our mission serves a dual purpose:

(1) to enable students to pursue advanced education, both foundational and applied, to lead groundbreaking research in medical physics, and

(2) to facilitate their seamless transition into medical physics residencies, culminating in rewarding careers in clinical medical physics.

Admission Requirements

To gain admission to the Stanford University’s MPCP, applicants must hold a PhD degree in physics or a closely related field. 

Admission Process

• Deadline The applicants are required to submit the application package before March 1 st each year cycle, but off-cycle admissions are possible for highly qualified candidates. 
• Application Material The received application package should include the following at a minimum:
• Transcripts that show undergraduate and obtained/expected PhD degree, 
• A detailed CV that list relevant research experience, publications, awards and skills,
• Statement of purpose,
• Two letters of recommendation,
• Any additional application materials you would like to include
• Application Review Process The application will be reviewed by the Certificate Program Steering Committee to assess whether the applicant satisfies the required admission criteria. The Program Director will notify the admitted applicants at least three months before each academic year starts (usually late September). The MPCP is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. 
• Please use the application link below to apply to the certificate program.

https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/678f48c7a0b64c0f80c835271d9d1c34

Financial Support and Opportunities

• Financial support for students in the MPCP is a crucial aspect of our commitment to facilitating academic and research excellence. Detailed information regarding tuition fees can be found here .
• Our program, a permanent and integral part of the Department of Radiation Oncology and Radiology, benefits from these departments' rich history of funding and research activities, particularly for postdoctoral fellows. Hence, financial support may be available from primary research advisors. For those seeking postdoctoral fellowships, numerous options are accessible through various training grants across laboratories and programs within the Departments of Radiation Oncology and Radiology. We encourage you to explore available opportunities and apply for these positions here . Postdoctoral fellows receive benefits in line with those provided to other Stanford University employees, separate from their participation in the MPCP. We are dedicated to helping our fellows access the financial resources they need to excel in their academic and research endeavors.

The core medical physics curriculum outlined by CAMPEP is comprehensively addressed through six didactic courses, which are overseen by the Departments of Radiation Oncology & Radiology. These six courses are:

• BMP251 Medical Physics and Dosimetry
• BMP252 Radiation Therapy Physics
• BMP253 Radiation Biology and Protection
• BMP220 Imaging and Image-Based Anatomy
• BMP269A Medical Imaging Systems l
• BMP269B Medical Imaging Systems ll

If you have any questions regarding the Stanford Certificate Program in Medical Physics, please forward your inquiries to:

Christina Gutierrez - [email protected]

General Questions

Who can apply to this program? The Medical Physics Certificate Program is available to anyone interested in joining the program for both US residents and US non-residents. 

How do you apply? Please use the application link below to apply to the certificate program.

Do you sponsor visas for US non-residents? We do not sponsor visas for the Medical Physics Certificate Program at this time. However, we welcome all international students interested in our program to apply.

Will this program certify me through CAMPEP for residency? The program is currently CAMPEP certification pending.

What is the tuition cost for Medical Physics Certificate Program? The tuition depends on the number of course units that s/he wants to take.  In general, the certificate program offers 6 courses, each course has 3 units, and each unit costs ~$1,300.00.

What financial aid options are available? Financial aid is only available to postdocs already attending Stanford University. We implore all applicants to explore the numerous opportunities and positions  here .