best phd programs in cancer biology

Oncology and Cancer Biology Graduate Programs in America

1-23 of 23 results

Stanford University School of Medicine

• Stanford, CA ·
• Stanford University ·
• Graduate School
• · Rating 5 out of 5   3 reviews

Stanford University ,

Graduate School ,

STANFORD, CA ,

3 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars.

Featured Review: Doctoral Student says I begin in the Fall of 2023--Based on my interview, and pre-classes I have taken this program is amazing. It is very student-centered. .

Read 3 reviews.

Vanderbilt University School of Medicine

• Nashville, TN ·
• Vanderbilt University ·
• · Rating 5 out of 5   2 reviews

Vanderbilt University ,

NASHVILLE, TN ,

2 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars.

Featured Review: Graduate Student says Vanderbilt University School of Nursing. Loved my experience! Great teachers, easy to access, clear cut goals in class, great clinical experiences. .

Read 2 reviews.

Biological Sciences Division - University of Chicago

• Chicago, IL ·
• University of Chicago ·
• · Rating 4 out of 5   1 review

University of Chicago ,

CHICAGO, IL ,

1 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says So far so good. Nothing out of the ordinary. Professors are knowledgeable. I would say to ensure that you know your interests and work closely with the advisors to pick suitable classes. .

Read 1 reviews.

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Keck School of Medicine

• Los Angeles, CA ·
• University of Southern California ·
• · Rating 5 out of 5   7 reviews

University of Southern California ,

LOS ANGELES, CA ,

7 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars.

Featured Review: Current Master's student says The Keck School of Medicine's Translational Genomics Program is a rigorous and comprehensive program that provides students with a strong foundation in genomics research and its applications. The... In addition, the program currently does not offer on-campus job opportunities, which can be challenging for international students who are not eligible to work off-campus. .

Read 7 reviews.

University of Michigan Medical School

• Ann Arbor, MI ·
• University of Michigan - Ann Arbor ·

University of Michigan - Ann Arbor ,

ANN ARBOR, MI ,

Featured Review: Current Doctoral student says University of Michigan Medical School offers an exceptional medical education experience. What is unique about Michigan medical school is the innovative focus they have on their curriculum and... .

Georgetown University School of Medicine

• Nw Washington, DC ·
• Georgetown University ·
• · Rating 4.75 out of 5   4 reviews

Georgetown University ,

NW WASHINGTON, DC ,

4 Niche users give it an average review of 4.8 stars.

Featured Review: Doctoral Student says Compressed pre-clinical work. Administration has been working on finding better and better educators, as well as hiring more learning specialists for the student body. Could have more focus on Step 1... .

Read 4 reviews.

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Wake Forest School of Medicine

• Winston-salem, NC ·
• Wake Forest University ·
• · Rating 4.82 out of 5   11 reviews

Wake Forest University ,

WINSTON-SALEM, NC ,

11 Niche users give it an average review of 4.8 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says I am an incoming graduate student, excited to begin my masters in clinical research management! This program is just a few years old, and I am grateful to be a part of some of the first few cohorts... .

Read 11 reviews.

University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health

• Madison, WI ·
• University of Wisconsin ·

Blue checkmark.

University of Wisconsin ,

MADISON, WI ,

Featured Review: Doctoral Student says The best part of being in the Endocrinology and Reproductive Physiology program in UW-Madison’s School of Medicine and Public Health is the community. I love the diversity of endocrinology training... .

Miller School of Medicine

• Miami, FL ·
• University of Miami ·
• · Rating 4.67 out of 5   9 reviews

University of Miami ,

MIAMI, FL ,

9 Niche users give it an average review of 4.7 stars.

Featured Review: Doctoral Student says It is a vigorous program that trains us to provide the best healthcare to our patients. The training they are making us do reflects the environment we are going to be working in .

Read 9 reviews.

Morsani College of Medicine

• Tampa, FL ·
• University of South Florida ·
• · Rating 4.8 out of 5   5 reviews

University of South Florida ,

TAMPA, FL ,

5 Niche users give it an average review of 4.8 stars.

Featured Review: Doctoral Student says I am currently in my second year of the three year DPT program in the School of Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation Sciences and my overall experience throughout the program thus far has been great.... .

Read 5 reviews.

University of Utah - College of Medicine

• Salt Lake City, UT ·
• University of Utah ·
• · Rating 5 out of 5   5 reviews

University of Utah ,

SALT LAKE CITY, UT ,

5 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars.

Featured Review: Doctoral Student says I have been completely overwhelmed by the opportunities in my program. The curriculum is incredibly crafted, with professors who care about our success and who have made an immense effort to make the... .

University of Arizona - College of Medicine

• Tucson, AZ ·
• University of Arizona ·

University of Arizona ,

TUCSON, AZ ,

Featured Review: Doctoral Student says A major advantage of UACOM is its early clinical exposure, allowing students to start hands-on patient care early in their education. This practical experience is integrated with basic science... UACOM is also well-regarded for its research opportunities, consistently ranking among the top medical schools for research. Affiliation with Banner Health provides access to cutting-edge research... However, there are challenges. The high cost of tuition and associated fees can be a significant financial burden, potentially limiting access for some students. The rigorous demands of the program... .

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Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences

• Buffalo, NY ·
• University at Buffalo, SUNY ·
• · Rating 4.33 out of 5   3 reviews

University at Buffalo, SUNY ,

BUFFALO, NY ,

3 Niche users give it an average review of 4.3 stars.

Featured Review: Doctoral Student says The curriculum is challenging but also rewarding. The only comment that I would give would be to focus more on content for the board exams. .

Drexel University College of Medicine

• Philadelphia, PA ·
• Drexel University ·
• · Rating 4.44 out of 5   9 reviews

Drexel University ,

PHILADELPHIA, PA ,

9 Niche users give it an average review of 4.4 stars.

Featured Review: Doctoral Student says Drexel's flipped classroom curriculum creates a lot of space for medical students to pursue extracurricular opportunities. Because I can watch lectures on my own schedule, I have been able to invest... .

College of Liberal Arts and Sciences

• Denver, CO ·
• University of Colorado Denver ·

University of Colorado Denver ,

DENVER, CO ,

Misher College of Arts and Sciences

• Saint Joseph's University - School of Health Professions ·

Saint Joseph's University - School of Health Professions ,

School of Medicine - Wayne State University

• Detroit, MI ·
• Wayne State University ·

Wayne State University ,

DETROIT, MI ,

Featured Review: Doctoral Student says Wayne State University School of Medicine has a collection of central tenants, one of the most impactful, personally, has been the drive to focus our academic curriculum to better serve a low-income,... .

College of Medicine and Life Sciences - University of Toledo

• Toledo, OH ·
• University of Toledo ·
• · Rating 4.5 out of 5   4 reviews

University of Toledo ,

TOLEDO, OH ,

4 Niche users give it an average review of 4.5 stars.

Featured Review: Doctoral Student says University of Toledo has amazing resources and staffing to aid in student's progressive learning. They truly care for the future of healthcare and all want us to succeed. My experience so far has... .

College of Agriculture, Urban Sustainability and Environmental Sciences - University of the District of Columbia

• Washington, DC ·
• University of the District of Columbia ·

University of the District of Columbia ,

WASHINGTON, DC ,

McGovern Medical School

• Houston, TX ·
• University of Texas - Health Science Center at Houston ·

University of Texas - Health Science Center at Houston ,

HOUSTON, TX ,

Featured Review: Niche User says The cardiac perfusion program is only 1 year long! The program does not require you to live on campus ! It’s not very expensive either ! .

School of Medicine - Oregon Health & Science University

• Portland, OR ·
• Oregon Health & Science University ·
• · Rating 4.5 out of 5   2 reviews

Oregon Health & Science University ,

PORTLAND, OR ,

2 Niche users give it an average review of 4.5 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says One great thing about OHSU is the clinical experience available. Since the college is connected with the hospital, i know across different programs students take classes or work at the hospital. .

College of Allied Health Professions - University of Nebraska Medical Center

• Omaha, NE ·
• University of Nebraska Medical Center ·

University of Nebraska Medical Center ,

OMAHA, NE ,

Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences - University of Texas - Southwestern Medical Center

• Dallas, TX ·
• University of Texas - Southwestern Medical Center ·

University of Texas - Southwestern Medical Center ,

DALLAS, TX ,

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Cell and Molecular Biology: Cancer Biology, PhD

Related programs.

• Cell and Molecular Biology: Cell Biology, Physiology, and Metabolism, PhD
• Cell and Molecular Biology: Developmental, Stem Cell, and Regenerative Biology, PhD
• Cell and Molecular Biology: Gene Therapy and Vaccines, PhD
• Cell and Molecular Biology: Genetics and Epigenetics, PhD
• Cell and Molecular Biology: Microbiology, Virology, and Parasitology, PhD

Cell and Molecular Biology

The Cell and Molecular Biology Graduate Group (CAMB) is an interdisciplinary graduate program, providing rigorous training in modern cell and molecular biology, preparing students for leadership careers in biomedical research. Within this integrated program are six discipline areas:  Cancer Biology ;  Cell Biology, Physiology, and Metabolism ;  Developmental, Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology ;  Gene Therapy and Vaccines ;  Genetics and Epigenetics ; and  Microbiology, Virology and Parasitology . Program faculty include more than 300 scientists representing 35 departments from the Perelman School of Medicine, the Schools of Arts and Sciences, Dental Medicine, and Veterinary Medicine, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, the Wistar Institute and Fox Chase Cancer Center. The research efforts of these scientists are diverse in their focus, experimental system, methodology, and represent the leading edge of basic and translational biomedical science.

Students from colleges and universities around the nation and the world are enrolled in the program, selecting one discipline area based on their scientific interests, yet have access to the full breadth of curricular and research opportunities provided by this large and diverse program. Our students participate in core courses in cell and molecular biology, specialized coursework in one or more discipline areas, and original hypothesis-driven thesis research. Upon completion of the PhD, they pursue successful research careers at top academic institutions, in the biotech and pharmaceutical industries, and in other biomedicine-related career paths.

For more information:  http://www.med.upenn.edu/camb/

Cancer Biology

The Program in Cancer Biology provides students focused training in a number of areas of cancer biology ranging from basic mechanisms to translational applications. Program faculty conduct research in DNA repair, epigenetics, metabolic pathways, the tumor microenvironment, cancer cell autonomous processes, cancer genetics and cancer immunology. Students take core molecular and cell biology courses, biostatistics course and elective courses in cancer biology and undertake three laboratory rotations of their choosing. Students have the opportunity to take grant writing courses, present in research-in-progress seminars, engage in networking opportunities, mentor undergraduates and high school students in Philadelphia as well as participate in outreach opportunities.

For more information: https://www.med.upenn.edu/camb/cb.html

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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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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

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Integrated Biomedical Sciences (IBS)

Cancer biology phd program.

The GW Cancer Biology PhD program is designed to equip the next generation of researchers with the knowledge, research training and leadership skills necessary to foster progress in the prevention, detection and treatment of cancer. The PhD program provides research training in areas reflecting GW faculty expertise, which includes the study of cancer signaling and checkpoint inhibitors, cancer immunology and immunotherapy, and molecular mechanisms of oncogenesis and metastasis, cancer genomics and epigenetics and the tumor microenvironment.

The  GW Cancer Center (GWCC)  brings together cancer research, clinical cancer care, and cancer control/prevention and outreach initiatives at GW, and offers students a range of exciting research programs, seminars and retreats. Researcher labs are located on the 8th floor of the contemporary Science and Engineering Hall, in Ross Hall and other locations. An important focus for the Cancer Center is to address prominent health disparities in breast, cervical, colorectal, pancreatic, liver and prostate cancers faced by communities in the District of Columbia. Students have access to cutting-edge core facilities for flow cytometry, imaging, and computational biology as well as the  Cell Enhancement and Technologies for Immunotherapy (CETI) lab , and state-of-the art  GW Biorepository  resource of biospecimens and clinical data to facilitate research on HIV/AIDS and cancer.

The  GW Cancer Biology Training Program  (supported by NIH T32 CA247756) is a prestigious dual  basic/clinical mentorship  program guided by expert cancer researchers and clinician investigators designed to prepare the next generation of outstanding cancer research scientists. The two-year program for predoctoral students and postdoctoral fellows includes courses and workshops as well as a discovery research project leading to an independent research career. Students apply for this program at the end of their first year, with their mentor and cancer-related research.

The PhD in Cancer Biology begins with the interdisciplinary coursework in molecular, cellular, and systems biology and research rotations offered through  GW’s Integrated Biomedical Sciences curriculum . In the second and third semester students add a comprehensive introduction to the conceptual and experimental underpinnings of cancer biology. Further electives, career development coursework in scientific writing, oral communication, and research ethics and laboratory rotations are provided. Following required laboratory rotations, students complete a. grant-style qualifier and then work with their research advisor and the Graduate Program Directors to complete remaining Cancer Biology degree requirements, including the research dissertation.

Cancer Biology Courses:

CANC 8221: The Basic Science of Oncology CANC 8222: Molecular Oncology and Epigenetics CANC 8998: Advanced Reading and Research Seminar Course CANC 8999: Dissertation Research

Some Suggested Electives:

GENO 6237: Proteomics & Biomarkers CANC 8223: Cancer Immunology BIOC 6240: Next Gen Sequencing HSCI 6263: Biostatistics Clinical Translational Scientific Research (online)

Seminars/Journal Clubs:

The Cancer Biology seminar series held is held Thursday at 4 pm, and the monthly Tumor Board discussions held each Friday morning at 8 am. An annual Cancer Center Retreat is held in May. Faculty and trainees share interest groups (breast, prostate, ovarian cancer) as well as thematic meetings (Cancer Biology, Cancer Immunology, Cancer Engineering), to focus on common research interests.

Examples of Recent Cancer Biology PhD Dissertations:

Sulgi (John) Lee PhD. 2020, “Identification and Characterization of Tumor Specific Antigens in Pediatric Diffuse Midline Gliomas” Mentors: Javad Nazarian, Eric Villain. (Now Application Scientist at Namocell, Washington DC)

Eden Dejene, PhD 2020 “Regulation of Poly(A)-specific ribonuclease Activity by Reversible Lysine Acetylation”. Mentor: Edward Seto, Inducted into Bouchet Society, NCI supplement. (Now Associate Scientist, Abcam, United Kingdom)

Graduate Program Directors:

Norman Lee, PhD Professor of Pharmacology & Physiology GWU; Ross Hall 601 [email protected]

Yanfen Hu, PhD Professor of Anatomy & Cell Biology GWU; Ross Hall 551-B [email protected]

How to apply  to the IBS and Cancer Biology PhD program.

For IBS Application Questions contact  Colleen Kennedy, IBS Program Manager  at  [email protected]

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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.

Wayne State University

School of medicine, cancer biology program cancer biology program, ph.d. program.

Our major basic scientific challenge in cancer biology research is to determine the underlying biological basis for malignancy and the clinical challenge is to apply this basic research to improve treatment of human cancers. To meet these challenges our Graduate Program in Cancer Biology has a scope and approach which transcends traditional department/discipline structures, while still providing knowledge and training in many disciplines including biochemistry, pathology, molecular biology, therapeutics, immunology, pharmacology and chemistry.  Ours therefore is an integrated inter-disciplinary graduate program.  Our program's goal is to develop within each student the approach to scientific thought and pursuit needed for original research as an independent cancer biology investigator.

The Ph.D. program consists of formal course work which provides a comprehensive education in the principles and research of cancer biology, as well as solid training in the core disciplines which serve modern-day cancer research.  Hence, graduates gain a broad understanding of the fundamental principles underlying this diverse field with in-depth knowledge in their dissertation discipline. Active participation in research seminars and original research are two basic elements of this program. The major element is training in the research techniques which comprise a sophisticated underpinning for future advances in cancer biology. Students must complete a publishable research project under a faculty mentor and successfully defend the dissertation research.

The program of each cancer biology student is tailored to their specific interests and research requirements. Previous educational experience is recognized so as to permit the student to progress as rapidly as possible. 

Since the program requires a broad understanding of cancer biology, a core curriculum is required.

Total credits above equal 34 credits

Also, a number of advanced cancer biology courses are provided from which the student will be required to choose 11 credit hours for a total of 45 coursework credits. A number of other courses are available to allow students to specialize with regard to a specific research discipline. 

It is expected that most course work will be completed in the first and second years. A written comprehensive qualifying exam is required by the end of the first year, followed by an oral exam of the proposed dissertation research. The third and subsequent years will be primarily devoted to dissertation research.  Forty-five credits of general research, including 30 credits of dissertation research, will complete the Graduate School requirements.

The Graduate Program in Cancer Biology provides research opportunities in many areas of Cancer Biology including Experimental Therapeutics, Metastasis, Breast Cancer, Carcinogenesis, Molecular Biology of Cancer, Cancer Immunology, as well as selected topics within the traditional departments of Pharmacology, Biochemistry, Immunology and Medicine. Students complete up to three laboratory rotations in the first year (one in each semester) after which he/she will choose a research project and a mentor.  At the end of the first year, the student must submit a Plan of Work. Following its acceptance, a permanent advisory committee is established. The progress of the student toward the goals of this program will be reviewed at frequent intervals and are required annually and the student advised accordingly.

Independent pursuit of research leading to results of publishable caliber is the prime evidence demonstrating the completion of the requirements remaining after a student has completed the prescribed coursework and been admitted to Ph.D. candidacy.  We offer a variety of research experiences in the broad field of Cancer Biology.  Although some students will be committed to a specific research area before they enter the program, others will want an opportunity to investigate projects in some detail before making a commitment. Research rotations provide an in-depth exposure to research prior to selecting a dissertation project. Seminars given by the faculty allow the students to become familiar with ongoing research in the program.

Since research is open-ended, the amount of time required for completion of a defensible dissertation cannot be predicted. Although the program is designed to require four to five years to complete, some variation in the length of the program for different students is to be expected.  Four years is a minimum expectation for this program. Realistic goals should be set and the student and dissertation mentor will discuss progress relative to these goals at frequent intervals. The final examination is the defense of the dissertation conducted by the student's Dissertation Committee. The program has no other formal requirements for successful completion of the Ph.D.

Application for the Graduate Program in Cancer Biology at the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute of Wayne State University

To apply to the Graduate Program in Cancer Biology, send a personal statement, a curriculum vitae, a description of research experience, an official undergraduate transcript(s), a copy of GRE scores and three letters of reference to the following address. International applications are required to also send TOEFL scores. Graduate Programs in Cancer Biology 329 Lande Building Wayne State University, School of Medicine 550 E Canfield Detroit MI 48201 [email protected]

Download and complete the following pdf form: Download pdf Application Form Here

Also, complete the on-line application here

Cancer Biology PhD Graduate Programs

Researching cancer biology phd graduate programs.

Our goal is to prepare highly selected students for productive research careers in genetics. Because of the central role played by genetics in all biological processes and the vastly expanding applications of genetics to virtually every aspect of modern society we believe that it is as important for our students to develop a broad perspective as it is for them to become experts in a specific area. A broad perspective is indispensable for the formulation of long-term career goals as well as for productive collaborations that have become such an integral part of modern research. While developing a broad base through appropriate courses, first-year students participate in eight-week research rotations in faculty laboratories of their choice. These rotations provide the basis for selecting the area of genetics in which the student will become an expert. Seminar courses occurring each semester focus on current topics in genetics and molecular biology and are presented by investigators within and outside of Emory. We also believe that strong presentation and communication skills are critical to becoming a top-notch scientist. As such, GMB students present periodic progress reports on their own research to the assembled Program. In summary, the GMB graduate program strives to educate and train tomorrow's top geneticists today.

The Student Experience

To provide the basis for advanced research, introductory courses covering both prokaryotic and eukaryotic systems are taken in the first year. First-year students obtain practical research training by participating in eight-week rotations in the investigators' laboratories of their choice. These rotations provide the basis for selecting dissertation topics and mentors. After completing the first year, students tailor their curriculum from a large list of specialized courses in genetics and molecular biology, as well as other areas of current biological sciences. All courses emphasize critical thinking, constructive literature evaluation, and presentation skills. Seminar courses occurring each semester focus on current topics in genetics and molecular biology and are presented by investigators within and outside of Emory. Students also present their findings in research-in-progress meetings, which are attended by their peers and the faculty. Student invited speakers, small group teaching experiences, and training in the ethical conduct of research round out the overall list of activities that occur as students conduct research and prepare their dissertation.

Research Opportunities

Research interests of the faculty vary in topic, approach and model organism. This interdepartmental graduate program derives its faculty from eight different departments including those from the departments of Biology, Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Human Genetics, Microbiology & Immunology, Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Pharmacology, and the Winship Cancer Institute. More on Research Opportunities...

Training Opportunities

The graduate program in Genetics and Molecular Biology (GMB) at Emory University offers an exciting broad based training in the fields of genetics and molecular biology and their related disciplines of biochemistry, bioinformatics, cell biology, developmental biology and statistics. Research interests of the faculty vary in topic, approach and model organism. This interdepartmental graduate program derives its faculty from ten different departments including those from the departments of Human Genetics, Biology, Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Microbiology & Immunology, Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Pharmacology, and the Winship Cancer Institute. A wide range of research opportunities in bacterial, viral, human and eukaryotic model system genetics enable students to specialize in their area of interest while obtaining an essential foundation in genetics. Areas of emphasis listed below are supported by state-of-the-art research facilities.

Research programs of the faculty fall into six major areas:

• Regulation of Gene Expression
• Development and Differentiation
• Cancer Genetics and Biology
• Human and Medical Genetics
• Bioinformatics and Comparative Genomics
• Genome Structure, Replication, Recombination And Repair

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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:

WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING FOR?

Key searches, cancer biology and genomics, about the cancer biology and genomics phd program.

The PhD program in Cancer Biology and Genomics (CBG) focuses on training investigators in strategies to understand the mechanisms of cancer development and progression which includes cell biological and genomic approaches. The ultimate objective is to translate basic findings into diagnostics, treatments and ultimate cures.

The program applies a multidisciplinary approach toward these goals, with the full realization that cancers in different organs represent different diseases. However all cancers relate to uncontrolled cell proliferation with many cancers having a strong genetic predisposition. Consequently, major features of this program include the breadth of medically related interests and training and faculty characterized by wide and varied skills in many cancer-related research areas. To facilitate the application of multidisciplinary approaches to make cancer a disease of the past, close and regular contact between participating faculty of different disciplines and students is a major theme of this PhD program.

Explore more about Cancer Biology and Genomics in this infographic .

Learn More!

Complete the form below for information on our graduate programs. Your journey towards a rewarding academic experience starts here!

PhD in Cancer Biology and Oncology

The Cancer Biology and Oncology PhD major will be an innovative program that provides the breadth of expertise, approaches, and sub-disciplines that constitute the diverse fields of Oncology. This unique program will rapidly immerse students into a research environment that will train them to become independent and creative scientists.

The Cell, Molecular and Cancer Biology PhD program is an interdisciplinary graduate program that involves faculty researchers from multiple departments on the Indiana University School of Medicine—Bloomington campus. The emphasis of the program is on the fundamental molecular and cellular mechanisms that lead to the proliferative growth associated with cancer. The primary objective of this graduate program is to train independent research investigators who can make contributions to their field of knowledge while working in academic/government institutions or industry laboratories.

Students explore a multitude of other career possibilities while working toward their degree. Alumni from the Cell, Molecular and Cancer Biology graduate program have successful careers in biomedical research, both in university and industrial biotech settings.

The application deadline for admission to the Cell, Molecular and Cancer Biology Program at IU School of Medicine—Bloomington is December 1.

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Cancer Biology

Graduate program, cancer biology program.

The interdepartmental program leading to the PhD in Cancer Biology combines training in the basic biomedical sciences with opportunities to apply clinical and translational research to studies on human cancer.

Would you like to make a difference by supporting graduate student training?

Please consider donating to the Cancer Biology Graduate Program.

I chose to join the Cancer Biology PhD program at CU Anschutz for a variety of reasons. (1) Its collaborative atmosphere and commitment to high quality mentorship for students whether they intend on pursuing academic or non-academic future roles, (2) the program's genuine concern for student well-being and commitment to inclusivity to create an empowering and diverse learning environment, and (3) the wealth of opportunities to learn about every step of bringing discoveries from bench-to-bedside. In addition to gaining technical scientific knowledge from world-class scientists, I've personally had the pleasure of learning about patient experiences and clinical trial design from Medical Oncologists at UC Health and the process of cancer therapeutic commercialization from Business Development and Licensing professionals at CU Innovations. Such experiences have made me a more well-rounded and patient-centered Cancer Biologist. 

- Phoebe Cao, Cancer Biology PhD Candidate

I joined the Cancer Biology Program because I wanted to explore the fundamental molecular mechanisms by which cancer cells form tumors. CU Anschutz gives me the opportunity to work with brilliant scientists from different fields of cancer biology.

- Abraham Martinez, Cancer Biology PhD Candidate

I joined the Cancer Biology Graduate Program at CU Anschutz to accomplish my goals of improving the standard of care and quality of life for patients through cutting edge research. CU Anschutz has stellar resources, such as the Cancer Center and the hospital which further enhance my translational studies.

- Daniela Ortiz Chavez, Cancer Biology PhD Trainee

I chose to join the Cancer Biology Graduate Program because of the unique position for collaboration, which is essential in cancer research. The senior students and mentors guide new students and provide an excellent research environment. As an international student, the program embraces diversity and makes me feel welcome.

- Li-Wei Kuo, Cancer Biology PhD Candidate

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Program in Cancer Biology

Mission of the Program in Cancer Biology

To train new leaders in the field of Cancer Biology that will develop new knowledge that will translate into improved detection, diagnosis, prognosis, prevention, or treatment of cancer.

Research Areas of Emphasis

• Cancer Immunity, host tumor interactions, and angiogenesis
• Cancer Precision Medicine—targeted therapies and drug resistance using mouse modeling, human tumor tissues, and systems approaches
• Bioinformatic analyses of tumor heterogeneity including genome, proteome, metabolome, and immunome components during tumor progression
• Basic Cancer Biology—tumor progression, invasion and metastasis

Steering Committee

Ann Richmond, Program Director Rachelle Johnson, Director of Graduate Studies Jin Chen Barbara Fingleton Vito Quaranta Jeffrey Rathmell W. Kimryn Rathmell Julie Rhoades Alissa Weaver Chris Williams

News & Events

Jared Rhodes (Mentor James Goldenring, MD, PhD)

Jared won the best student graduate poster at the 23rd Annual Retreat for Cancer Biology! His research in Goldenring Lab examines fibroblasts and how they have recently been shown to promote the dysplastic transition of metaplastic lineages in the stomach. Specifically, conditioned media (CM) from gastric metaplasia and cancer-derived fibroblasts accelerated dysplastic progression in metaplastic gastroids. It remains unclear which factors secreted from fibroblasts cause this progression. Therefore, he performed scRNA-sequencing on normal, metaplasia, and cancer-derived fibroblasts. This revealed expression differences of many secreted factor encoding genes. Metaplastic gastroids were cultured in 30 and 50 kDa filtered CM from cancer-derived fibroblasts to narrow down candidate factors. 30 kDa filtrate CM enhanced dysplastic progression of metaplastic gastroids compared to 50 kDa filtrate. Therefore, they looked specifically for genes encoding 30 kDa or fewer proteins and found high SPON2 expression only in metaplasia and cancer-derived fibroblasts. SPON2 is a 30 kDa secreted protein shown to promote the proliferation and migration of gastric cancer cells. Therefore, they hypothesize that fibroblasts secrete SPON2 to induce dysplasia. The presence of SPON2 in CM was confirmed with mass spectrometry, detecting SPON2 only in metaplasia and cancer-derived fibroblast CM. Furthermore, STAT3 inhibition was evaluated because SPON2 has been shown to promote downstream signaling through STAT3. A STAT3 inhibitor suppressed the effect of cancer-derived fibroblast CM in the dysplastic progression of metaplastic gastroids. These are the first studies investigating fibroblast-derived SPON2 in the induction of precancerous gastric dysplasia. Understanding factors that contribute to gastric dysplasia represents an important area of research, as gastric cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide.

Yunli (Emily) Chu (Mentor Brent Ferrell, PhD)

Emily won the Best Talk award at the 23rd Annual Retreat in Cancer Biology! Emily’s research discusses Cytotoxic chemotherapy, which has been the mainstay of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) treatment. There are no approved immunotherapies for AML due to our limited understanding of how CD8+ T cells respond to AML progression. To investigate CD8+ T cell dynamics in AML, we transplanted leukemic cells bearing the MLL-AF9 translocation into immunocompetent mice. Leukemic mice exhibited a shift in CD8+ T cell phenotype toward activation, characterized by reduced naive cells, increased effector cells, and elevated CD69 expression. Surprisingly, high-dimensional phenotyping using mass cytometry identified an enrichment of PD-1 and LAG-3 expressing T cells. Ex vivo stimulation demonstrated heightened TNF-α and IFN-γ production by leukemia-associated T cells. To test if the cytokine milieu is sufficient to induce the phenotypic changes, we stimulated isolated, naive CD8+ T cells in conditioned media containing serum from healthy or leukemic mice. Interestingly, exposure to the AML cytokine milieu alone failed to induce the phenotypic changes observed in vivo. These findings suggest that other factors, such as receptor-ligand interactions and nutrient competition, may play more prominent roles in shaping T-cell responses in AML. In summary, these studies highlight that AML can profoundly influence the phenotype and function of CD8+ T cells. AML induces a dysfunctional phenotype in CD8+ T cells, though functionally, these cells produced more cytokines. It is possible that the secretion of inflammatory cytokines by CD8+ T cells contributes to AML cell proliferation. Future studies will focus on the mechanisms underlying phenotypic changes and immune escape in AML, seeking ways to disrupt these interactions.

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Best Global Universities for Oncology in the United States

These are the top universities in the United States for oncology, based on their reputation and research in the field. Read the methodology »

To unlock more data and access tools to help you get into your dream school, sign up for the  U.S. News College Compass !

Here are the best global universities for oncology in the United States

Harvard university, johns hopkins university, cornell university, university of california san francisco, yale university, university of california los angeles, vanderbilt university, university of pennsylvania, university of washington seattle, university of michigan.

See the full rankings

• Clear Filters

• # 1 in Best Universities for Oncology
• # 1 in Best Global Universities

Founded in 1636, Harvard University is the oldest higher education institution in the U.S. The bulk of Harvard's... Read More

• # 2 in Best Universities for Oncology
• # 10 in Best Global Universities

Johns Hopkins University is a private institution that was founded in 1876. The school has campuses located in and... Read More

• # 3 in Best Universities for Oncology
• # 21 in Best Global Universities

Cornell University is a private institution that was founded in 1865. The Ivy League school is located in Ithaca, New... Read More

• # 4 in Best Universities for Oncology
• # 16 in Best Global Universities  (tie)

The University of California—San Francisco is a public institution that was founded in 1864. The health sciences-focused... Read More

• # 6 in Best Universities for Oncology
• # 11 in Best Global Universities

Yale University was founded in 1701, making it one of the oldest institutions of higher education in the U.S. The... Read More

• # 7 in Best Universities for Oncology
• # 14 in Best Global Universities

The University of California—Los Angeles, commonly referred to as UCLA, is a public institution that was founded in... Read More

• # 9 in Best Universities for Oncology
• # 78 in Best Global Universities

• # 10 in Best Universities for Oncology
• # 15 in Best Global Universities

The University of Pennsylvania, also known as Penn, was founded in 1740. The private, Ivy League institution is located... Read More

• # 11 in Best Universities for Oncology
• # 6 in Best Global Universities

The University of Washington is a public institution that was founded in 1861. The school's oldest and largest campus in... Read More

• # 12 in Best Universities for Oncology
• # 19 in Best Global Universities

The University of Michigan—Ann Arbor is a public institution that was founded in 1817 and made the city of Ann Arbor its... Read More

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2024 Best Oncology & Cancer Biology Schools

In 2024, College Factual analyzed 24 schools in order to identify the top ones for its Best Oncology & Cancer Biology Schools ranking. When you put them all together, these colleges and universities awarded 170 degrees in oncology & cancer biology during the 2021-2022 academic year.

What's on this page: * Degree-Level Rankings

• Best Overall Oncology & Cancer Biology Schools List

Choosing a Great Oncology & Cancer Biology School

In order to find the schools that are the best fit for you, you may want to filter to one of the degree levels below.

Pick Your Oncology & Cancer Biology Degree Level

Since picking the right college can be one of the most important decisions of your life, we've developed the Best Oncology & Cancer Biology Schools ranking, along with many other major-related rankings , to help you make that decision. More interested in schools in a specific area of the country? Filter this list by region or state .

To further help you make the college decision, we've developed a unique tool called College Combat that allows you to compare schools based on the factors that matter the most to you. Go ahead and give it a try, or bookmark the link so you can check it out later.

Read more about College Factual's methodology .

Best Schools for Oncology & Cancer Biology in the United States

If you aren't interested in a particular degree level and want to know which schools are the overall best at delivering an education for the oncology and cancer biology degrees they offer, see the list below.

10 Top Schools in Oncology and Cancer Biology

Vanderbilt University is a wonderful choice for students pursuing a degree in oncology & cancer biology. Located in the large city of Nashville, Vanderbilt is a private not-for-profit university with a large student population. A Best Colleges rank of #19 out of 2,217 schools nationwide means Vanderbilt is a great university overall.

There were roughly 5 oncology & cancer biology students who graduated with this degree at Vanderbilt in the most recent data year.

Stanford University is one of the best schools in the United States for getting a degree in oncology & cancer biology. Located in the large suburb of Stanford, Stanford is a private not-for-profit university with a large student population. A Best Colleges rank of #3 out of 2,217 schools nationwide means Stanford is a great university overall.

There were approximately 13 oncology & cancer biology students who graduated with this degree at Stanford in the most recent data year.

It is difficult to beat University of Michigan - Ann Arbor if you want to pursue a degree in oncology & cancer biology. Located in the city of Ann Arbor, U-M is a public university with a fairly large student population. A Best Colleges rank of #29 out of 2,217 schools nationwide means U-M is a great university overall.

There were roughly 4 oncology & cancer biology students who graduated with this degree at U-M in the most recent year we have data available.

University of Wisconsin - Madison is one of the finest schools in the country for getting a degree in oncology & cancer biology. UW - Madison is a fairly large public university located in the large city of Madison. A Best Colleges rank of #30 out of 2,217 colleges nationwide means UW - Madison is a great university overall.

There were approximately 2 oncology & cancer biology students who graduated with this degree at UW - Madison in the most recent data year.

Georgetown is a fairly large private not-for-profit university located in the city of Washington. A Best Colleges rank of #15 out of 2,217 colleges nationwide means Georgetown is a great university overall.

There were about 13 oncology & cancer biology students who graduated with this degree at Georgetown in the most recent year we have data available.

Located in the city of Houston, UTHealth is a public university with a medium-sized student population.

There were approximately 11 oncology & cancer biology students who graduated with this degree at UTHealth in the most recent data year.

Located in the city of Los Angeles, USC is a private not-for-profit university with a very large student population. A Best Colleges rank of #11 out of 2,217 colleges nationwide means USC is a great university overall.

There were approximately 7 oncology & cancer biology students who graduated with this degree at USC in the most recent year we have data available.

UChicago is a fairly large private not-for-profit university located in the city of Chicago. A Best Colleges rank of #2 out of 2,217 colleges nationwide means UChicago is a great university overall.

There were approximately 13 oncology & cancer biology students who graduated with this degree at UChicago in the most recent data year.

Located in the small city of Lawrence, KU is a public university with a very large student population. This university ranks 1st out of 47 colleges for overall quality in the state of Kansas.

There were roughly 3 oncology & cancer biology students who graduated with this degree at KU in the most recent year we have data available.

Located in the city of Iowa City, Iowa is a public university with a very large student population. A Best Colleges rank of #84 out of 2,217 colleges nationwide means Iowa is a great university overall.

There were approximately 2 oncology & cancer biology students who graduated with this degree at Iowa in the most recent data year.

Oncology & Cancer Biology by Region

View the Best Oncology & Cancer Biology Schools for a specific region near you.

Other Rankings

Bachelor's degrees in oncology and cancer biology, doctor's degrees in oncology and cancer biology, master's degrees in oncology and cancer biology.

View All Rankings >

Rankings in Majors Related to Oncology and Cancer Biology

One of 13 majors within the Physiology & Pathology Sciences area of study, Oncology & Cancer Biology has other similar majors worth exploring.

Majors Similar to Oncology and Cancer Biology

View All Oncology and Cancer Biology Related Majors >

Notes and References

• The bars on the spread charts above show the distribution of the schools on this list +/- one standard deviation from the mean.
• The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System ( IPEDS ) from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), a branch of the U.S. Department of Education (DOE) serves as the core of the rest of our data about colleges.
• Some other college data, including much of the graduate earnings data, comes from the U.S. Department of Education’s ( College Scorecard ).

More about our data sources and methodologies .

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Student Profile: Amanda Shea

Where are you from and what’s your previous training? Why Madison and the Cancer Biology program? 

I’m originally from the Northern VA area, but grew up in a military family, so there’s not a specific place I consider to be my childhood home. After graduating from the University of Mary Washington in Fredericksburg, VA, I got a lab tech job in Madison, WI. I left home and haven’t looked back. I began with basic lab management until a few, now best friends, asked for me to help them with their iPSC cultures. After a year as a lab tech, I was promoted to the RAGE (Reprogramming and Genome Engineering) group where I spent most of my time reprogramming human blood and fibroblasts back to stem cells for different clients. During this time, I was also training for flow cytometry and was sent to California to assist on generating banks for CIRM. After two years with this group, a PhD position opened in the CAR-T Immunotherapy group. I took a chance and applied, literally telling my future boss “I may not have the degree, but I have the hands to learn whatever you need.” During those last three years, I worked on generating both human iPSC derived CAR-T and CAR-NK cells. I also worked on more advanced flow training and switching our product to a completely GMP therapeutic.

As soon as I moved to Madison, I knew this was the town for me. It’s small, but has unlimited potential if you know where to look. From the outdoor adventures and quiet indoor adventures, Madison has something for everyone. Being a huge biotech center as well really solidified that this was the best place for me. Applying to UW was a no brainer. Because of my previous work in immunotherapy, I was interested in continuing that field for my degree, so the cancer biology program at UW was a perfect fit.

What was your favorite place/activity to hang out when you need to de-stress? 

My house!! I keep a ton of books and video games queued up to be able to unwind at the end of the day. If it’s a spot, I love going to Original House of Pancakes on weekend mornings with my friends to chat over french toast and coffee.

What is your home lab and what is your project focusing on? 

I’m in the Zach Morris lab on the third floor of WIMR. Currently, my project is focusing on the dose dependent responses of immune cell subtypes to radiation.

Any new advice for incoming students? 

Relax. There’s no right or wrong path, do what feels right for you and take as many opportunities as you can. We are all doing science at the end of the day; it might as well be science you like.

What is one fun fact about you?

I got the job here in Madison from an online pen pal. In college I really enjoyed the first few seasons of the walking dead and I liked drawing the characters. Another tumblr user enjoyed my art, and I enjoyed theirs, so we got to talking. They wound up moving to Madison my senior year of college and asked if I was interested in moving here because of the biotech industry. I applied for the lab tech job where her husband worked and finally met them when I came out to interview. Don’t tell my parents; they told me not to meet people from the internet.

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UB Awards 320 Biomedical Science Degrees; 35 Earn PhDs

Commencement 2024.

Lauryn Alexandria Scott, a biomedical sciences undergraduate student, is all smiles as she walks across the stage during the May 19 biomedical sciences commencement ceremony.

By Dirk Hoffman

Published May 29, 2024

Thirty-five doctoral, 76 master’s and 209 baccalaureate candidates were eligible to receive degrees in biomedical science fields during the May commencement ceremony.

2024 Commencement Video

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Six graduate students and nine senior undergraduates were singled out for special honors, including four graduates who received a Chancellor’s Award, the highest State University of New York undergraduate honor.

Graduates completed work in 14 departments or programs of the Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences :

• biochemistry
• biomedical informatics
• biomedical sciences
• biotechnical and clinical laboratory sciences
• genetics, genomics and bioinformatics
• medical physics
• microbiology and immunology
• natural sciences interdisciplinary
• neuroscience
• nuclear medicine technology
• pathology and anatomical sciences
• pharmacology and toxicology
• physiology and biophysics
• structural biology

Graduates also completed the following programs offered in alliance with the  Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center Graduate Division : cancer pathology and prevention, cancer sciences, immunology, and molecular pharmacology and cancer therapeutics.

Fifteen of the doctoral degrees and eight of the master’s degrees were awarded in Roswell Park’s programs.

Allison Brashear, MD, MBA, UB’s vice president for health sciences and dean of the Jacobs School, congratulates the Class of 2024.

Lessons Learned From Recent Solar Eclipse

Allison Brashear, MD, MBA , UB’s vice president for health sciences and dean of the Jacobs School, welcomed attendees to the May 19 event at UB’s Center for the Arts and addressed the graduates.

“It fills my heart with immense joy to see all of you gathered here today,” she said.

“In the face of the challenges that have beset us in recent times, these bright scholars and scientists have exhibited extraordinary resilience, determination and perseverance in their academic endeavors. I am confident that these qualities will serve as guiding lights as they embark upon their journeys in their respective fields.”

She noted that biomedical science is one of the broadest areas of medical science and underpins much of modern medicine.

“Biomedical scientists are at the heart of multidisciplinary teams in health care. Biomedical research looks at ways to prevent and treat disease,” Brashear said. “Your innovative approaches and unwavering dedication will continue to push the boundaries of scientific discoveries and technology, leading to a brighter and healthier future for all of us.”

In his address, UB President Satish K. Tripathi, PhD, told the graduates they could learn a lot from the recent solar eclipse that generated excitement in Western New York in early April.

“Allow me to share three tips of advice gathered from the path of totality,” he quipped.

“Reconnect with the natural world, as often as possible. Instead of taking selfies, take time for self-reflection,” he said. “When you give wide berth to the stressors of modern life, you allow yourself space to find both your place in the world and your responsibility to it.”

“Do not regret circumstances beyond your control,” Tripathi added, noting the sunny days leading up to the eclipse, but the extreme cloudiness that persisted over much of WNY on April 8, the day of the event. “Notwithstanding the uncooperative weather, we all experienced a breathtaking moment. Magnify your disappointments and you miss occasions for learning, enrichment and wonder.”

“Lastly, use your expertise for the greater good. When you apply what you have learned for others’ benefit, you put your UB education to its highest purpose,” he said.

Doctoral graduate Haley Victoria Hobble won two separate graduate awards for her research and dissertation. She is flanked by Mark R. O’Brian, PhD, left, and John C. Panepinto, PhD.

Outstanding Graduates Recognized

Biochemistry graduate student research achievement award.

Doctoral graduate Haley Victoria Hobble was honored for research that received national or international recognition and for being selected to give an oral presentation at a major national or international meeting.

Dissertation: “Intrafamily Heterooligomerization of the N-Terminal Methyltransferase METTL11A”

Mentor: Christine E. Schaner-Tooley, PhD , associate professor of biochemistry

Roswell Park Graduate Division Award for Excellence in Research

Doctoral graduate Abigail Cornwell was the recipient of this award for outstanding research for her dissertation titled “Impact of Benzodiazepines on the Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma Tumor Microenvironment”

Mentor: Michael Feigin, PhD, associate professor of oncology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center

The Dean’s Award for Outstanding Dissertation Research

Doctoral graduate Haley Victoria Hobble was the winner of this award that recognizes demonstrated excellence in research.

She was honored for her dissertation: “Intrafamily Heterooligomerization of the N-Terminal Methyltransferase METTL11A”

Mentor:  Christine E. Schaner-Tooley, PhD , associate professor of  biochemistry

The Microbiology and Immunology Award for Excellence in Dissertation Research in Memory of Dr. Murray W. Stinson

Doctoral graduate Katherine Shannon Wackowski was honored for her dissertation “Cooperation of RESC Proteins in Trypanosome RNA Editing and Holoenzyme Dynamics”

Mentor: Laurie K. Read, PhD , professor of microbiology and immunology

Dennis Higgins Award for PhD Dissertation Research in Pharmacology and Toxicology

Doctoral graduate Shirley Xu was honored for her dissertation “Troponin-Mediated Autoimmune Mechanisms of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor-Induced Myocarditis”

Mentor: Umesh Sharma, MD, PhD , associate professor of medicine

Bishop Neuroscience Thesis Award

Doctoral graduate Richard Adam Seidman was honored for his dissertation “Oscillatory Calcium Mediated Regulation of Human Oligodendrocyte Progenitor Cells”

Mentor: Fraser J. Sim, PhD , professor of pharmacology and toxicology

The Structural Biology Award for Excellence in Dissertation Research in Memory of Dr. Robert H. Blessing

Doctoral graduate Nicholas David Clark was honored for his dissertation “Structure/Function Studies of Virulence Factors from Periodontal Pathogens and Membrane Sphingolipid Hydroxylases”

Mentor: Michael G. Malkowski, PhD , professor and chair of structural biology

The four undergraduate SUNY Chancellor’s Award winners, from left, Bryan R. Renzoni, Lea Kyle, Rachel Esther Sanyu and Sarah Bukhari, along with Jennifer A. Surtees, PhD.

SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Student Excellence

Sarah Bukhari, Lea Kyle, Bryan R. Renzoni and Rachel Esther Sanyu were recognized with the SUNY Chancellor’s Award. It recognizes students for their integration of academic excellence with other aspects of their lives that may include leadership, athletics, community service, creative and performing arts, entrepreneurship or career achievement.

Bukhari graduates with a bachelor’s degrees in biochemistry. She is an undergraduate researcher in the lab of  Jennifer A. Surtees, PhD , professor of  biochemistry . Bukhari secured funding from the Experiential Learning Network and a Mentored Research micro-credential.

Beyond academics, the Grand Island, New York, native is deeply involved in community engagement, serving as both the volunteer coordinator and vice president of the largest student-run pre-health organization, the Association of Pre-Medical Students, and was awarded a Community Engagement micro-credential and gathering 500+ volunteer hours.

With dual roles as dance coach and social media coordinator for the Pakistani Student Association, she fosters a network of communities to embrace diversity and celebrate traditions.

A native of Martville, New York, Kyle is a University Honors College Scholar who graduates with a Bachelor of Science degree in biochemistry with minors in both physics and public health.

She has been a Student Association, Recreation Department, Student Engagement and TASS Center employee. She also is the current president of UB Rotaract, a volunteering club on campus.

Kyle is also a student researcher in the  Department of Microbiology and Immunology ,  Elizabeth A. Wohlfert, PhD , associate professor of microbiology and immunology, focusing on the effects of chronic inflammation on muscle function due to chronic infection..

Renzoni, of East Amherst, New York, graduates with a Bachelor of Science degree in biochemistry. He is a University Honors College Presidential Scholar and Honors College Ambassador.

A BioXFEL Scholar, he has received multiple research internship positions and worked in two different laboratories, contributing to work on the development of novel organic and organometallic compounds with applications as cancer therapies.

Renzoni has also served as a co-chair of the G14 Leadership Summit, president and executive adviser of UB ChemClub, and both assistant music director and music director of The Enchords, UB’s all-gender a cappella group.

Sanyu, an international student from Uganda, graduates with a bachelor’s degree in pharmacology and toxicology.

She is an Honors College Scholar who conducted oncology research within the lab of Wendy Huss, PhD, at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center and at Johnson & Johnson, where she earned the 2023 Inspire Spotlight Award.

Sanyu has also worked as a student assistant in the Office of Interprofessional Education and an honors peer mentor. 

She is a founder of a health care app and is involved with the community through her work with Suubi Cancer Relief and Hillside Family of Agencies.

Sanyu also loves to dance and was a member of the UBMystique and 8-Count dance teams.

Undergraduate Outstanding Senior Awards

The following awards honor high academic performance and involvement in the campus community and external organizations:

Biochemistry Sarah Bukhari

Biomedical Sciences Alexis Krayevsky

Biotechnology Tanvi Dixit

Medical Technology Eva Wisniewski

Neuroscience Leah Heiler

Nuclear Medicine Technology Kelly Mahan

Pharmacology and Toxicology Rachel Esther Sanyu

Commencement speaker Styliani-Anna (Stella) E. Tsirka, PhD, tells the graduates to never lose sight of the wonder and awe that first drew them to the biomedical sciences.

Keynote Theme One of Compassion, Resilience

Commencement speaker Styliani-Anna (Stella) E. Tsirka, PhD, the Miriam and David Donoho Distinguished Professor of pharmacological sciences and vice dean for faculty affairs at the Renaissance School of Medicine at Stony Brook University, spoke about empathy and persistence.

“Beyond the technical skills and academic achievements that you have earned and will continue to earn, what will set you apart is your capacity for empathy, for compassion, your ethical responsibility,” she said.

“In the pursuit of scientific advancement, try not to lose sight of the human element and the living organisms whose lives may be impacted by our work.”

Tsirka noted that biomedical scientists have a serious duty to use their expertise to make society better, alleviate suffering and to promote the health and well-being of all people, regardless of race, gender or socioeconomic status.

“If you decide to further pursue scientific inquiry, do remember that you will need persistence and resilience,” she said. “Experimental science is not for the faint of heart.”

She remarked that her lab members often talk about the fact that it is called “research” instead of just “search.”

“The majority of our experiments will not be successful, but the ones that provide that ‘eureka moment’ will last a lifetime,” Tsirka assured the graduates. “Remember that setbacks are valuable lessons that shape the way for future success.”

Tsirka encouraged the graduates to embrace the idea of lifelong learning.

“To remain at the forefront of your field, you must remain curious and receptive of new ideas,” she said.

“Importantly, science is also delicate. Continue to approach it with integrity and rigor.”

Phone Numbers

Routine and emergency care.

Companion Animal Hospital in Ithaca, NY for cats, dogs, exotics, and wildlife

Equine and Nemo Farm Animal Hospitals in Ithaca, NY for horses and farm animals

Cornell Ruffian Equine Specialists, on Long Island for every horse

Ambulatory and Production Medicine for service on farms within 30 miles of Ithaca, NY

Animal Health Diagnostic Center New York State Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory

General Information

Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine Ithaca, New York 14853-6401

Baker Institute for Animal Health

Dedicated to the study of veterinary infectious diseases, immunology, cancer, reproduction, genomics and epigenomics, meet our faculty, alexander j. travis, vmd, phd.

Department of Biomedical Sciences

Professor of reproductive biology, director, cornell university master of public health program, department of public and ecosystem health, department chair.

  Baker Institute for Animal Health

  Academic Profile

Office: 607.256.5613 Lab: 607.256.5622 Fax: 607.256.5608 Email: [email protected]

Dr. Travis's Work

Studies of reproduction, wildlife, and public health to create healthier animals and humans

Dr. Alex Travis’s research explores a diverse set of subjects related to One Health, which is interdisciplinary work that links the health and wellbeing of people, animals, and the environment. His interests include animal and human health and fertility as well as efforts to help alleviate poverty and hunger in developing countries, work that indirectly benefits local wildlife. Dr. Travis serves as Director of Cornell’s new  Master of Public Health program .

• Male infertility, assisted reproduction . Poor sperm function is a common cause of infertility in animals and humans alike, but there are currently few easy and accurate tests for diagnosing the problems involved. Building on his expertise in sperm biology, Dr. Travis and his team have developed a male fertility test that scores the likelihood that a man’s sperm will be able to successfully fertilize an egg. For humans, this result can help doctors inform couples seeking to have a child about the pathway to pregnancy that can serve them best. 

New test offers clarity for couples struggling to conceive  

• Puppies born by  in vitro  fertilization help dogs, wildlife . Dr. Travis and his colleagues and students welcomed the  first puppies born by  in vitro  fertilization on July 10, 2015  at the Baker Institute. The births are the first time this assisted reproduction technique, in which ova and sperm are brought together in a test tube to create embryos, has been successfully accomplished in a dog. This advancement could provide new strategies for preventing human and canine genetic diseases. To assist wildlife conservation efforts, the techniques are now being applied to help endangered canid species reproduce in captivity.   
• Rapid diagnosis of stroke, other disorders.  Minutes count when treating stroke or other brain injuries, but current diagnostics take as long as three hours – during which time patients may be suffering from irreversible brain damage. Copying a molecular design they discovered in the sperm tail, Travis and his colleagues, including Baker Institute assistant research professor Dr. Roy Cohen , have developed a device that can diagnose stroke in less than ten minutes using less than a drop of blood. Having demonstrated proof of principle, Travis and Cohen are now expanding the technology to diagnose other conditions in humans and animals, including traumatic brain injury (concussion), some forms of dementia, and even some types of cancer and heart disease.  
• Getting sperm tail enzymes to do important work.  Sperm are interesting because of their role in reproduction, but the Travis lab is also putting components of the long sperm tail to work for other purposes. Building on their past studies of sperm’s energy-making enzymes, Dr. Travis and his colleagues have mimicked the way these enzymes are organized in the tail, called a “flagellum”, to create enzyme machines powered by sugar. If the work can be enhanced to be a net producer of energy, these molecular engines could enable a number of practical applications in nanobiotechnology. For example, these tiny powerhouses could be integrated into implanted hybrid biological/mechanical medical devices, which would diagnose or treat disease, fueled by the sugars available in a patient's bloodstream.   

Dr. Travis’s Current Projects:

• Nanobiotechnology: tethering enzymes to make energy and diagnose disease
• Cell biology of reproduction and membranes
• Development of new technologies of assisted reproduction
• Conserving wildlife by fighting poverty and hunger

Additional Resources:

• If you would like a copy of Dr. Travis' CV please email  Jamie Weber
• Travis Lab Website

Connect with the Baker Institute on Twitter and Facebook:

Molecular and Cell Biology

• Undergraduate Program

Introduction to the Major

The Molecular and Cell Biology (MCB) major focuses on the study of molecular structures and processes of cellular life and their roles in the function, reproduction, and development of living organisms. This covers a broad range of specialized disciplines, such as biochemistry, microbiology, biophysics, molecular biology, genetics, cell physiology, cell anatomy, immunology, and neurobiology.

The MCB major provides excellent preparation for many careers and post-baccalaureate training programs, including graduate programs and health-related professional programs (e.g., medicine, dentistry, optometry, pharmacy), science writing, law school, biotechnology, teaching, and academic research.

Emphases in MCB 

All MCB students complete the same lower division coursework to gain critical training in Biology, Mathematics, Chemistry, and Physics. Upon declaring the major, MCB students choose an emphasis, or concentration, which determines their upper division core courses and elective courses. There are five emphases in MCB:

Biochemistry & Molecular Biology

Cell & Developmental Biology

Genetics, Genomics & Development

Immunology & Pathogenesis

• Neurobiology

Amplify Your Major

Take advantage of summer research opportunities in Berkeley or beyond.

Explore math and science education and learn teaching skills with CalTeach

Conduct research and present your findings as part of the MCB Honors Program .

My classes challenge me to think critically in an experimental setting, and my professors are constantly updating the course material with the latest findings. Joanna Maltbaek, MCB Major

• Four-Year Student Timeline

Explore Your Major

Visit the MCB website to learn about the five emphases within the MCB major.

Meet with an MCB Peer advisor to discuss your options and map out a 4-year plan

Enroll in Freshman Seminars on interesting topics; explore major opportunities and resources.

Connect and Build Community

Attend the Calapalooza student activities fair and explore student organizations such as MCBUSA and MCBcDNA 

Form a study group and get tutoring in the Student Learning Center

Follow MCB on Facebook , Instagram and Twitter .

Discover Your Passions

Visit the Office of Undergraduate Research and Scholarships to learn about research opportunities and resources on campus.

Take L&S1 for an introduction to the College.

Explore new topics in student-facilitated DeCal courses .

Engage Locally and Globally

Research study abroad options for MCB students.

Explore volunteering opportunities on campus and in the berkeley community such as Berkeley Free Clinic or Suitcase Clinic

Learn about community service with the Public Service Center .

Reflect and Plan Your Future

Join Handshake to find Berkeley-specific internship opportunities and career development workshops.

Shadow alumni with a winter externship

Visit the Career Counseling Library to explore all of the career options in MCB.

Second Year

Continue completing lower division requirements.

Consider a minor or summer minor to complement your MCB major.

Talk to an MCB staff advisor to review your major requirements and discuss declaring.

Go to office hours to build relationships with MCB faculty and graduate student instructors.

Sign up for the MCB newsletter to find out about events happening in the department.

Connect with a community of biology students in the Biology Scholars Program .

Learn about the many ways to find research in MCB-related fields.

Apply to the Undergraduate Research Apprenticeship Program

Develop skills teaching math and science to K-12 students in the CalTeach Program .

Apply to study abroad programs to fulfill breadth  or major requirements.

Consider the Alternative Breaks program to go on service-learning trips over school breaks.

Look into the Career Center’s list of health volunteer opportunities .

Meet alumni and learn about their career paths in the Career Connections Networking Series

Conduct informational interviews to learn more about different career fields

Attend internship fairs .

Finish lower division requirements for the major and start your emphasis-specific upper division courses

If still undeclared, visit the MCB website to start the declaration process

Expand your studies with an enrichment course or elective in another department.

Give back by becoming an MCB Peer Advisor or tutor at the Student Learning Center

Get involved with citizen science

Grow your study groups into communities of support.

Apply for leadership positions in student organizations.

Apply to summer research opportunities such as SURF and the Haas Scholars Program

Apply for fellowships to fund your own research project.

Talk to your major advisor about the MCB Honors Program .

Apply for NSF Research Experience for Undergraduates at colleges around the country.

Attend professional association conferences for networking opportunities.

Explore science and policy in Washington D.C. with UCDC or Cal in the Capital . 

Build job search skills and confidence with Berkeley Career Engagement workshops

Explore post-grad options at career and graduate school fairs

Ask professors for letters of recommendation.

Plan for any post-grad exams (GRE, MCAT, etc).

Update resume and practice interviewing skills.

Fourth Year

Check your Academic Progress Report (APR) and meet with an MCB staff advisor and college advisor to ensure you are on track to fulfill all major, college, and campus requirements.

Finish any remaining major and college requirements. 

Complete an optional senior honors thesis .

Connect with faculty and advisors about future career goals and opportunities.

Present at or attend the MCB Fall Poster Session.

Facilitate your own DeCal course on a topic you are interested in or passionate about.

Enroll in non-major courses you haven’t had time to pursue or courses that are outside your comfort zone.

Talk with professors about research conferences to present at or attend.

Apply for fellowships available to recent Berkeley graduates.

Explore gap year opportunities prior to embarking on your next academic or career adventure.

Find jobs and internships through the On-Campus Recruiting program.

Attend Employer Info Sessions and network through the MCB Industry Affiliates Program

Apply for graduate schools, jobs, and research opportunities.

What Can I Do With My Major?

Jobs and employers.

• Clinical Laboratory Technician, Illumina
• Clinical Research Coordinator, UCSF
• Consultant, Deloitte Consulting
• Fellow-Community Health, Peace Corps
• Histology Technologist, Kaiser Permanente
• Lab Technician, UC Berkeley
• Life Science Strategy Analyst, Huron Consulting
• Medical Scribe, PhysAssist
• Project Associate and Data Analyst, Berkeley Air Monitoring Group
• Recruiting Coordinator, Google
• Research Associate, Genentech
• Research Technician, CalTech
• Sales Representative, Vanda Pharmaceuticals Inc.
• Teacher, Teach for America

Graduate Programs

• Biochemistry
• Biological Sciences
• Biomedical Engineering
• Biomedical Sciences
• Biostatistics
• Organic Chemistry
• Public Health

Examples gathered from the First Destination Survey of recent Berkeley graduates.

Connect With Us

Come to Berkeley’s annual Open House in April for information sessions, campus tours, special talks, and more.

Golden Bear Orientation

Join your peers in the campus-wide UC Berkeley orientation program for all new students.

Attend department events with students, faculty, and staff. Visit mcb.berkeley.edu for news and updates.

Staff advisors are here to support you through remote and in-person appointments, plus drop-in advising options.

Junior and senior MCB students also provide peer advising on the content of specific classes, help you to develop plans, and answer general questions about being a student at Berkeley.

After you declare the MCB major, you can meet with a faculty advisor --MCB professors assigned to advise students about the MCB department, courses, research, and other academic issues.

How to Use this Map

Use this map to help plan and guide your experience at UC Berkeley, including academic, co-curricular, and discovery opportunities. Everyone’s Berkeley experience is different and activities in this map are suggestions. Always consult with your advisors whenever possible for new opportunities and updates.

• What Can I Do with My Major?

Download the PDF Print Version

Optimal Cancer-Killing T Cells Discovered

Improves Outlook for Lymphoma Patients

By Laurie Fickman — 713-743-8454

• Health and Medicine

A team of cancer researchers, led by the University of Houston, has discovered a new subset of T cells that may improve the outcome for patients treated with T-cell therapies.

T cell-based immunotherapy has tremendous value to fight, and often eliminate, cancer. The strategy activates a patient’s immune system and engineers a patient’s own T cells to recognize, attack and kill cancer cells. In this way, the body’s own T cells become living drugs.  

While T-cell immunotherapy has revolutionized cancer treatment, there is still much to learn. Unfortunately, not all patients respond to these therapies, so a better understanding of the properties of engineered T cells is necessary to improve clinical responses.  

One such study, supported by a grant from the National Institutes of Health, is reported in Nature Cancer by the laboratory of Navin Varadarajan, M.D. Anderson Professor in the William A. Brookshire Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering. The study uses the patented TIMING (Timelapse Imaging Microscopy in Nanowell Grids) approach which applies visual AI to evaluate cell behavior, movement and ability to kill.  

“Our results showed that a subset of T cells, labeled as CD8-fit T cells, are capable of high motility and serial killing, found uniquely in patients with clinical response,” reports first author and recent UH graduate Ali Rezvan in Nature Cancer. In addition to the UH team, collaborators include Sattva Neelapu and Harjeet Singh, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston; Mike Mattie, Kite Pharma; Nabil Ahmed, Texas Children’s Hospital, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston; and Mohsen Fathi, CellChorus.  

To discover the CD8-fit cells, the team used TIMING to track interactions between individual T cells and tumor cells across thousands of cells and integrated the results with single-cell RNA sequencing data.  

“Chimeric antigen receptors (CAR) T cells used for the treatment of B cell malignancies can identify T-cell subsets with superior clinical activity. Using infusion products of patients with large B cell lymphoma, we integrated functional profiling using TIMING with subcellular profiling and scRNA-seq to identify a signature of multifunctional CD8 T cells (CD8-fit),” said Rezvan. “We profiled these cells using single-cell RNA sequencing to identify the CD8-fit molecular signature that could be used to predict durable patient outcomes to T-cell therapies and validated our findings with independent datasets.”  

The team also found that the CD8-fit signature is present in pre-manufactured T cells, longitudinally persists in patients post-infusion, and most importantly, is associated with long-term positive clinical responses. According to the researchers, it is likely that these T cells can drive clinical benefit in other tumors.  

“This work illustrates the excellence of graduate students Ali Rezvan and Melisa Montalvo; and post-doctoral researchers Melisa Martinez-Paniagua and Irfan Bandey among others,” said Varadarajan.  

CellChorus, a spinoff from Varadarajan’s Single Cell Lab at UH, is developing the AI-powered TIMING platform. The company recently announced a $2.5 million Small Business Innovation Research grant from the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences of the National Institutes of Health to advance TIMING for cell therapy applications.  

Top Stories

May 22, 2024

The Neural Basis of Human Creativity

University of Houston neuroscientist Jose Luis Contreras-Vidal, the pioneer of brain-machine interfaces, has been invited to speak and present emergent research on brain computer interfacing and artificial intelligence at the United Nations AI for Good Global Summit.

• Science, Energy and Innovation

May 21, 2024

University of Houston Graduate Students Selected for Prestigious U.S. Dept. of Energy Program

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science has chosen three University of Houston graduate students for its prestigious graduate research program. UH doctoral candidates Farzana Likhi, Caleb Broodo and Leonard Jiang were among 86 students from 31 states selected for Office of Science Graduate Student Research (SCGSR) program which provides world-class training and access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources at DOE national laboratories.

May 15, 2024

With $5M NASA Grant, University of Houston to Open Aerospace Engineering Research Center

With a multi-million-dollar grant from NASA, the University of Houston will open an aerospace engineering research center to extend human presence on the moon and Mars for sustainable, long-term space exploration, development and utilization.