This program's mission is to provide students with:

  • Advanced knowledge in current concepts in molecular, cellular, and genetic processes that contribute to the development and treatment of cancer
  • Specialized training in experimental methodology used to study cancer in a laboratory setting
  • Required shadowing of clinical oncologists to help identify clinically-relevant research questions leading to projects with a potential impact on cancer patients

Learn about our program's curriculum

Curriculum Overview

The Graduate College requires the satisfactory completion of 72 semester hours in order to obtain a Ph.D.

Required Courses

For the first year, students take common courses with other Biomedical Science students.

Cancer is a term that encompasses over 210 different types of malignancies, each with a unique set of biological, etiological, and clinical features. Cancer researchers continue to widen their scope as more is learned, requiring a breadth of knowledge in many areas of research (e.g. cell biology, genetics, immunology, and cell metabolism) to understand the complexities of cancer etiology and treatment.

The Cancer Biology Program provides this knowledge through classroom and research training leading to a PhD degree, and preparing students for a variety of career paths in academic, clinical, and industry environments dealing with the study and/or treatment of cancer.

Students and Research Assistants in Dupuy Lab

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Ready to apply?

You can learn more about the application process and requirements here.

News

UI receives over $683 million in research funding in 2024

Thursday, August 15, 2024

AACR 2024 Presentations by students and faculty

Tuesday, July 9, 2024

Events

Women In Micro & Immuno Coffee Hour

Monday, January 13, 11:00am to Monday, December 8, 2025 12:00pm
Carver Biomedical Research Building
Join us for the Women in Micro & Immuno Coffee Hour. It is the monthly coffee hour on the second Monday of the month from 11 a.m. to noon in 1289 CBRB. Enjoy coffee, pastries and contribute to the discussion! This is open to ALL — students, staff, postdocs, and faculty interested in promoting women in science. Speakers change monthly. Contact: jessica-tucker@uiowa.edu for details.

Women In Micro & Immuno Coffee Hour

Monday, March 10, 2025 11:00am to Monday, February 2, 2026 11:00am
Carver Biomedical Research Building
Join us for the Women in Micro & Immuno Coffee Hour. It is the monthly coffee hour on the second Monday of the month from 11 a.m. to noon in 1289 CBRB. Enjoy coffee, pastries and contribute to the discussion! This is open to ALL — students, staff, postdocs, and faculty interested in promoting women in science. Speakers change monthly. Contact: jessica-tucker@uiowa.edu for details.
Study Abroad Conversation Series: Mindful Travel promotional image

Study Abroad Conversation Series: Mindful Travel

Monday, March 31, 2025 5:00pm to 6:00pm
University Capitol Centre
Traveling abroad isn't just about the destination — it's about the journey. Learn how to travel mindfully, respecting cultures and making meaningful connections along the way. Join us to hear how other Hawkeyes have embraced mindful travel and made the most of their experiences abroad. The Study Abroad Conversation Series amplifies the voices of students who studied abroad allowing them to share their experiences and stories with students whether they have committed to studying abroad or not...