The goal of the Cancer Biology PhD program is to provide our students with education and training that will enable them to make significant contributions to this remarkable field. Coursework during the first year is designed to provide a broad understanding of the molecular, genetic, cell biological, and pathobiological aspects of cancer. Students will also learn about the current state of clinical diagnosis and treatment of human cancers. Equally important during the first year is a series of three rotations in research laboratories chosen by each student. By the beginning of the second year, each student will have chosen his/her research advisor and will have begun work on his/her dissertation project. A qualifying examination must be completed by the end of the second year. An annual Cancer Biology Conference provides our students with an opportunity to present their research to one another and to the faculty. The expected time to degree is four to five years.
Our students are not limited to a single department in choosing their research advisor. The Cancer Biology PhD Program currently has approximately 65 graduate students located in a variety of basic science and clinical departments throughout the School of Medicine and School of Humanities and Sciences. Many of our students are supported by a training grant from the National Cancer Institute, a branch of the United States government.
The Cancer Biology PhD program is committed to fostering a diverse community of students. We welcome all individuals and strive to support them so they achieve their full potential. We value the diversity of our students because culture, socioeconomic and educational background, race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, physical ability, life experiences, hobbies, and interests allow us as a group to reach a greater level of innovation in cancer research.
