Cancer Biology Graduate Degree Program

Email: cancerbio@oncology.wisc.edu

Website: Cancer Biology Graduate Degree Program's website

Phone: 608-262-4682

Address:
Cancer Biology Graduate Program
C/O McArdle Laboratory for Cancer Research
University of WI-Madison School of Medicine and Public Health
Wisconsin Institutes for Medical Research
1111 Highland Ave, Madison WI 53705-2275

MAIN AREAS OF RESEARCH

The Cancer Biology Graduate Program at the University of Wisconsin-Madison offers a course of study and research leading to the Ph.D. degree. Over 50 faculty trainers from multiple departments including Oncology, Medicine, Human Oncology, Cell and Regenerative Biology, Medical Microbiology and Immunology, etc. participate in the graduate program. This interdepartmental structure offers remarkably diverse training opportunities which span the entire breadth of cancer biology research from haploid or diploid genetics, viral and chemical carcinogenesis, eukaryotic cell and molecular biology, virology, molecular toxicology, and whole-animal carcinogenesis.
In addition, curriculum requirements are designed to be flexible, providing students with a maximal opportunity for specialization within this multidisciplinary field. The breadth of research opportunities, flexible curriculum, and outstanding training from faculty allow our graduate students to accomplish their educational and training goals and to establish themselves as independent researchers.

PROGRAM FUNDING

The program is committed to ensure continuing financial support for all cancer biology Ph.D. students in good standing. Financial support includes a competitive stipend and tuition remission. All graduate students are also eligible for comprehensive health insurance. Ph.D. students are supported from a variety of different sources including research assistantships from faculty research grants, fellowships, and NIH training grants. There is no teaching requirement for cancer biology students; however, many opportunities exist on campus for those who wish to gain teaching experience.

Students are admitted into the Cancer Biology Program as a Research Assistant (RA) unless they have received a fellowship or training grant.

ADMISSIONS REQUIREMENTS

Students seeking admission to the program must complete a bachelor’s degree in biology, biochemistry, chemistry, molecular biology, or a related area from an accredited college or university and should have a grade point average of at least 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale). The background of the student should include basic courses in these areas as well as several advanced courses in chemistry, microbiology, biochemistry, genetics, physiology, and molecular biology. Prior laboratory research experience is highly desirable.

Applicants must submit a completed application online, personal statement (reasons for graduate study), unofficial college transcripts, updated CV/resume (highlighting laboratory experience), and three letters of recommendation. The GRE is not required.