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Oncological Sciences

About Us

Established in 1994, the Department of Oncological Sciences performs research and provides training with an emphasis in cancer biology. This department is strongly aligned with Huntsman Cancer Institute (HCI) at the University of Utah, whose mission is to discover the origins of human cancer as well as develop new diagnostics and treatments.

Our department brings together a community of faculty, students, and staff, who work with approximately 50 graduate students and 20 post-doctoral fellows, in research laboratories. We award PhD degrees in cancer biology, with specialized training in transcriptional regulation and epigenetics, animal models of cancer, and cancer cell biology, including apoptosis, metabolism, and signaling.

Bradley R. Cairns, PhD

Chair, Department of Oncological Sciences

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Trainee Spotlight

Tania Lopez

My name is Tania Lopez, and I am from Puebla, Mexico, and a 5th-year PhD student in the Andersen Lab. I am studying a non-receptor tyrosine kinase that seems to activate inflammatory signaling pathways through a process called liquid-liquid phase separation. The purpose of my project is to understand the biological function of this kinase as a way to know how to target it in inflammatory diseases and cancer. Outside of the lab I love reading, especially motivational books and religious material (scriptures, basically), and I love running! I have participated in several 5K and 10K events and recently completed my first half-marathon. A fun fact about me is that I love singing but I don't sing that well. Music is just part of me! If you see me around, you'll probably notice that I always have an ear bud in, and if you are very unlucky, you might hear me singing. 

Upcoming Events

Wednesday
April 23, 2025

2024-25 Oncological Sciences / HCI Lab Research in Progress

2024-25 Oncological Sciences / HCI Lab Research in Progress Event Contact Name: Dee DalPonte...

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Thursday
May 1, 2025

Department of Oncological Sciences Seminar Series - Ana Gomes, PhD

The Department of Oncological Sciences presents:, Ana Gomes, PhD, University of South Florida, Assistant ...

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Thursday
May 8, 2025

Department of Oncological Sciences Seminar Series - Crystal Rogers, PhD

The Department of Oncological Sciences presents:, Crystal Rogers, PhD, University of California Davis, ...

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WHY UTAH?

In Utah you can truly have it all. Salt Lake City and the surrounding areas offer new comers diverse neighborhoods, great schools, arts and entertainment, and endless possibilities for sports and recreation. A strong economy and low cost of living make Utah a perfect choice to call home.