Master of Science in Biomedical Science - Cancer Biology

University of Toledo

The Cell and Cancer Biology (CCB) track within the Biomedical Science Program at the University of Toledo fosters young scientists to become independent investigators with a focus on Cell and Cancer Biology, who understand the molecular and genetic basis of cancer disease and have the knowledge of cell biology to develop improved therapies for human cancer. Students in the Cell and Cancer Biology track develop critical and logical thinking and laboratory skills to approach cancer research questions in ways that will best lead to success. The Cancer Biology program graduates move on to become successful scientists and leaders in academic, government, and industrial settings. CCB students may pursue the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree or, after acceptance into the medical school, a combined MD/PhD degree. The Master’s degree in Cancer Biology is also currently offered. The CCB program faculty research interests and areas of expertise are 1) Aging and cancer, 2) Autophagy and cancer metabolism, 3) Cancer cell motility and chemotaxis, 4) Cancer dormancy, progression, and metastasis, 5) Chromatin remodeling and epigenetic regulation, 6) DNA damage and repair, 7) Drug discovery and delivery, 8) Therapy/drug resistance, 9) Tumor microenvironment, 10) Molecular genetics of cancer risk, 11) Signal transduction. Cell and Cancer Biology PhD students enroll in a first-year core curriculum designed to provide a foundation of knowledge for cutting-edge research. This curriculum offers a comprehensive overview of molecular and cellular biology, systems pathophysiology, modern research methods, and statistical analysis. Additionally, students complete laboratory rotations during the first two semesters and select a major advisor and laboratory for their dissertation research project. PhD students complete three rotations and join a Cell and Cancer Biology laboratory in the spring semester of their first year. Students in good academic standing may receive financial support through a tuition scholarship and stipend during their academic training. This financial assistance does not require the student to serve as a Teaching Assistant for undergraduates, allowing them to focus on their graduate research. -

College of Medicine and Life Sciences