Research Training in Clinical Cancer Genetics

Overview

Clinical cancer genetics research aims to translate molecular genetics advances into evidence-based management strategies (e.g., screening, surgical risk-reduction, and chemoprevention) for persons at increased genetic risk of cancer. Investigators work to identify new cancer susceptibility genes and to characterize phenotypic manifestations of inherited and familial cancer syndromes. We have a particular interest in the psychosocial and behavioral realm as it relates to high-risk status. Fellows work with researchers engaged in conducting clinical research studies targeting high-risk families, in pursuing astute clinical observations of unusual cancer occurrences that might provide new clues to cancer etiology, and in applying epidemiologic methods to the study of high-risk individuals. They gain practical knowledge about conducting clinical studies and learn about basic molecular laboratory techniques and approaches. Fellows work on interdisciplinary epidemiologic studies. Postdoctoral and predoctoral positions in the Clinical Genetics Branch (CGB) are available and applications are accepted on a continuous basis. NOTE: These are NOT laboratory-based positions. Although we collaborate extensively with laboratory colleagues, using biological specimens obtained from carefully-characterized research protocol participants, CGB has no laboratory resources of its own. To discuss potential opportunities in your area of research interest, you may contact branch investigators directly. Meet fellows in the branch.

Qualifications

Postdoctoral fellowships: Individuals must either hold a doctorate degree in or be enrolled in a doctoral program related to medicine, genetics, oncology, or the psychosocial/behavioral sciences. Familiarity with genetic association studies is a plus, although not required.

Predoctoral fellowships: Individuals must either be enrolled in a doctoral program with the desire to complete their dissertation in CGB or have a Master's degree in a field relevant to CGB research.

Post-baccalaureate fellowships: These may be offered on a selective basis to individuals on a career path towards medicine, genetics or epidemiology. These are typically one- or two-year appointments, with most fellows moving on to doctoral degree programs of one kind or another after their work at CGB is complete.

Application Process

Predoctoral and postdoctoral fellowship applications in the branch are accepted on an ongoing basis. See the Division Fellowship Information page for an overview, qualifications, and application details.

Training Programs

• CGB often mentors clinical fellows, in the training programs listed below, for their research experiences:

  NCI Medical Oncology Fellowship Program

  NCI Pediatric Oncology Branch Fellowship Program

  The Pediatric Hematology Oncology Training Program at Children's National Medical Center - These candidates are frequently pursuing concurrent MPH degrees at the George Washington University School of Public Health.

  NIH Medical Genetics Fellowship Program - Medical genetics fellows also rotate through CGB's Familial Cancer Clinic.

  The NCI Cancer Prevention Fellowship Program

• Genetic Counseling - CGB is a training site for The Johns Hopkins University/National Human Genome Research Institute Genetic Counseling Training Program.

Training Opportunity with Specific Investigators

• Training in the Inherited Bone Marrow Failure Syndromes of Childhood
  A postdoctoral research opportunity is available for a clinically-trained pediatric or medical hematology/oncology physician with research interests in the Inherited Bone Marrow Failure disorders.