Join us at the forefront of cancer research
Study the mechanisms involved in cell cycle control. Investigate genes and pathways that contribute to tumorigenesis. Define new biomarkers for better diagnosis and risk assessment. Identify novel targets for therapeutic intervention.
When you choose the Cancer Genetics, Genomics, and Development PhD track at Roswell Park, you’ll focus on laboratory research, with a thesis project involving independent research at the frontiers of current knowledge.
We have both a large, friendly faculty and a high faculty-to-student ratio. We’re looking for dedicated students with substantial background in biology and chemistry,
Track highlights
The Cancer Genetics, Genomics, and Development Track emphasizes cutting-edge basic and translational research, performed with outstanding scientific rigor and reproducibility, leading to high quality publication of students’ work.
We stress critical evaluation of published data through our journal clubs and acquisition of oral communication skills through seminar courses. You’ll also participate in professional development by attending international conferences and presenting your research.
Research areas
Faculty research interests cover a broad spectrum of cancer genetics and molecular biology, with exceptional strengths in:
- Isolation and characterization of cancer genes
- Somatic cell genetics
- High-throughput genomics and epigenomics
- Mouse genetics and mouse models of cancer
- Epigenetic and cell cycle regulation in cancer
- Oncogenic signaling pathways and metabolic changes in cancer
First author articles from recent graduates:
| Student | Year Graduated | Mentor | First Author Publication |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hayley Affronti | 2018 | Dr. Smiraglia | https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31911608/ |
| Charles Manhardt | 2018 | Dr. Lau | https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28717006/ |
| Laura Prendergast | 2019 | Dr. Gurova | https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32533099/ |
| Sejin Chung | 2019 | Dr. Knudsen | https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30538111/ |
| Eric Irons | 2019 | Dr. Lau | https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32391003/ |
| Patrick Punch | 2020 | Dr. Lau | https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31897489/ |
| Ashley Mussell | 2020 | Dr. Shang | https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31832513/ |
| Spencer Rosario | 2020 | Dr. Smiraglia | https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30552315/ |
Additional information about our research can be found on our individual faculty pages.
The educators, mentors and students at Roswell support and push each other to be the best they can be. They work to generate a sense of community that is open, inclusive, and encouraging all while performing some of the most translational research. The small class size and outstanding education you receive at Roswell provides a stimulating learning experience that lays an excellent foundation for your success as a scientist in cancer research.Hayley Affronti, PhD, Class of 2018
Program of study
Fall - 19 credit hours
- Integrated Cancer Sciences I/II (RPG 501/502) (4 credit hours each = 8 credit hours)
- Statistical Analysis I (STA 527) (4 credit hours)
- Responsible Conduct of Research (RPG 504) (1 credit hour)
- First-Year Student Journal Club (RPG 601) (2 credit hours)
- Independent Study (RPG 514) (4 credit hours)
Spring - 19 credit hours
- Integrated Cancer Sciences III (RPG 503) (4 credit hours)
- Tools and Models of Molecular Oncology (RPG 543) (4 credit hours)
- Graduate Seminar (RPG 521) (2 credit hours)
- Doctoral Research (RPG 608) and, if needed, Electives (9 credit hours)
Fall - 19 credit hours
- Regulatory Mechanisms (RPG 525) (4 credit hours)
- Basics of Grantsmanship I (RPG 603) (1 credit)
- Graduate Seminar (RPG 521) (2 credit hours)
- Doctoral Research (RPG 608) and, if needed, Electives (12 credit hours)
Spring - 3 credit hours
- Basics of Grantsmanship II (RPG 604) (1 credit)
- Graduate Seminar (RPG 521) (1 credit hour)
- Doctoral Research (RPG 608) (5 credit hour)
- Special Topics: Cancer Genomics and Bioinformatics (RPG 599) (1 Credit)
Fall - 1 credit hour
- Doctoral Research (RPG 608) (1 credit hour)
Spring – 1 credit hour
- Doctoral Research (RPG 608) (1 credit hour)
How to apply
Contact us
Jamie Genovese
Track Coordinator
Phone: 716-845-8654
Fax: 716-845-1698
Email: Jamie.Genovese@RoswellPark.org