T32: Interdisciplinary Research Training in Cancer Biology

This multi-disciplinary program focuses on training pre-doctoral students and post-doctoral fellows in cancer biology so that they can effectively decipher important research questions associated with human cancer. Our program integrates the already established and successful programs in Signal Transduction and Mechanisms of Cancer Cell Survival, Cancer Progression and Metastasis, Tumor Microenvironment, Metabolomics, and Oxidative Stress and DNA Damage with clinical exposure into one cohesive program. Trainees will receive both didactic and non-didactic instruction, including laboratory-based basic science research, exposure to cutting edge clinical applications, and career development opportunities.

A unique feature of this program is the interdisciplinary training opportunity that will emphasize bench to bedside research topics to provide a bridge between the fundamental biology of cancer and clinical cancer. Our goal is to develop a cadre of future scientists who can become leaders in integrative team approaches to better understand the complex issue of cancer as it relates to prevention and treatment strategies.

The University of Kentucky places a significant emphasis on training of minority students, post-doctoral researchers and physicians. This program will ensure the inclusion of individuals with under-represented racial and ethnic background to better serve our diverse society.

In addition to the mentors listed below, mentees may choose mentors who are not included on the T32 but work on cancer-related topics at the University of Kentucky.

Theme 1: Mechanisms of Cancer Cell Proliferation and Tumorigenesis 

• Subbarao Bondada, PhD
• John D'Orazio, MD, PhD
• Mark Evers, MD
• Tianyan Gao, PhD
• Chunming Liu, PhD
• Qing-Bai She, PhD

Theme 2: Mechanisms of Cancer Cell Apoptosis 

• Vivek Rangnekar, PhD

Theme 3: Role of Oxidative Stress in Tumor Progression 

• Daret St. Clair, PhD

Theme 4: Cancer Microenvironment and Metastasis 

• Kathleen O'Connor, PhD
• Rina Plattner, PhD
• Peter Zhou, MD, PhD

Theme 5: Metabolomics 

• Teresa Fan, PhD
• Richard Higashi, PhD
• Andrew Lane, PhD 

Theme 6: Cancer Drug Development and Discovery

• David Watt, PhD
• Chunming Liu, PhD
• Jessica Blackburn, PhD

Theme 7: Obesity and Cancer

• Mark Evers, MD
• Tianyan Gao, PhD
• Yekaterina "Kate" Zaytseva, PhD
• Vivek Rangnekar, PhD

Theme 8: In-vivo Models of Cancer Relevance

• Jianhang Jia, PhD
• Christine Fillmore Brainson, PhD
• Jessica Blackburn, PhD
• Ren Xu, PhD

Pre and post-doctoral applicants must be involved in cancer research projects at UK and should possess interest in pursuing a career in a cancer-related field.  Potential applicants must be US citizens or permanent residents. 

Pre-doctoral applicants should have completed at least one year in a PhD program. All trainees will have completed the foundation courses in graduate level Genetics, Biochemistry, Immunology, Pharmacology, Physiology, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology and Biostatistics.

• 1 Pre-doctoral
• 3 Post-doctoral

The Interdisciplinary Research Training in Cancer Biology T32 supports one pre-doctoral and three post-doctoral trainees during a two-year research fellowship.  

• Trainees are expected to complete an ethics course as well as a Cancer Biology and Therapy course, which emphasizes cancer in the context of human disease.
• Trainees will participate in the Markey Cancer Center weekly seminar series as well as participate in a variety of seminars, workshops and symposia at UK over the course of their training.
• Each trainee is required to shadow a clinician and include one physician scientist on their mentoring committee.

Click here for a complete list of T32 program requirements.

All trainee stipends are fixed by the National Institutes of Health, and postdoctoral stipends may vary based on years of experience following doctoral degree. Trainees are eligible for health insurance, tuition support, and travel money when appropriate for advancing the training experience. 

Please submit the following application materials via email to Erin Oakley.

1. An application letter from the potential trainee (1-2 pages) articulating their previous research experience, commitment to a career in cancer biology or cancer-related research, and a brief research proposal. The applicant should indicate how their thesis research and/or career will benefit from cross-disciplinary training in oncologic research.

2. A current Curriculum Vitae and transcripts of the applicant.

3. A letter of support from the mentor(s) recommending the candidate and outlining the research plan for the trainee.

4. Names and contact information for two additional references that may be contacted by the Executive Steering Committee.

The Executive Steering Committee will select the top candidates and interview them before making a final decision. Please contact Erin Oakley if you have any questions.