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.

A campus visual from the Carver College of Medicine outdoor lawn space.

Ready to apply?

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

Events

Biology Seminar: "Evolution of Staphylococcus aureus in chronic lung infections" promotional image

Biology Seminar: "Evolution of Staphylococcus aureus in chronic lung infections"

Friday, October 23, 2026 3:30pm
Biology Building East
The Department of Biology’s seminar speaker on Friday, October 23, is Anthony Fischer, MD, PhD, Clinical Associate Professor of Pediatrics - Pulmonary Medicine, in the Stead Family Department of Pediatrics at the University of Iowa. His seminar will be held at 3:30pm in Kollros Auditorium (Room 101), Biology Building East (BBE).
Mobile Clinic - Coralville Food Pantry promotional image

Mobile Clinic - Coralville Food Pantry

Saturday, October 24, 2026 10:30am to 1:30pm
Coralville Community Food Pantry
Mobile Clinic
Mobile Clinic - St. Patrick's promotional image

Mobile Clinic - St. Patrick's

Sunday, October 25, 2026 11:30am to 2:30pm
St. Patrick's Church
Mobile Clinic