Graduate Program in Cancer Biology Training at Emory University

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PROJECT SUMMARY Cancer represents a collection of diseases that remains the second leading cause of death in the United States. However, several recent advances in cross-disciplinary research have improved patient outcomes and provided a tremendous opportunity for continued progress. In order to further the innovation and clinical impact of research discoveries, a Ph.D. workforce with broad conceptual knowledge across the field of cancer biology research is required. To ensure successful careers, Ph.D. scientists need an acute awareness of rapidly evolving technological approaches used in cancer biology research, deep knowledge of specific areas, and critical thinking skills. To address the need for well-trained, diverse, cross-disciplinary Ph.D. scientists entering the workforce, we propose the Graduate Program in Cancer Biology Training at Emory University. This Program will provide an exceptional interdisciplinary training program that is above and beyond Ph.D. programs at Emory with opportunities for basic and translational research focused on cancer biology. It will be highly integrated within the environment at the Winship Cancer Institute, the NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center. A suite of evidence-based learning approaches, experienced research mentors focused on cancer in various Ph.D. Programs and unique ability to interact across clinical and laboratory disciplines will enable the development of our trainees' success in academic-, industry- and government-based research careers. The objective of this Program is to provide a diverse population of predoctoral students with effective training that culminates in 1) Ph.D. scientists with broad conceptual knowledge who are trained to think critically, effectively, and communicate their findings; 2) A Ph.D. workforce aware of how to conduct responsible, rigorous and reproducible scientific studies; and 3) A Ph.D. workforce with training in cross-disciplinary communication and exposure to clinical application of research findings. To achieve this goal, we will use a core curriculum that includes discussion- based, active learning approaches to fundamental principles of cancer biology and the development of presentation skills through didactic classroom and seminar experiences. The importance of rigor and reproducibility in cancer research is emphasized during all phases of the training for both students and mentors, with a required course emphasizing this training as part of the courses, seminars, and journal clubs. This program will have an environment focused on inclusive excellence to ensure the recruitment and retention of students from diverse and underrepresented backgrounds. Finally, Ph.D. trainees will have unique training opportunities, including the responsibility to organize and execute symposiums, seminars, rigorous training in ethical aspects of research, and ample opportunity for close interaction with clinical and research trainees undergoing post- doctoral fellowship training to invigorate communication-related to translational relevance in cancer.