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.

Events

Molecular Physiology and Biophysics Seminar, Huan Bao, PhD promotional image

Molecular Physiology and Biophysics Seminar, Huan Bao, PhD

Tuesday, September 30, 2025 9:30am to 10:30am
Bowen Science Building
Neuroscience & Pharmacology Seminar - Tom Reh, PhD promotional image

Neuroscience & Pharmacology Seminar - Tom Reh, PhD

Tuesday, September 30, 2025 10:30am to 11:30am
Medical Education Research Facility
Stimulating retinal regeneration in mammals by reprogramming glia: it’s never too late to change their fateTom Reh, PhDProfessorDepartment of Neurobiology and BiophysicsUniversity of Washington School of Medicine

Department of Microbiology and Immunology Seminar Series

Tuesday, September 30, 2025 3:00pm to 4:00pm
Bowen Science Building
Seminar Series