By Chloe Leib
In February, the UF Health Cancer Center held its second annual Cancer Research Career Explorations Program. Twenty-eight undergraduate students from 24 universities and colleges in 18 states across the country had the opportunity to visit the Cancer Center and be immersed in leading-edge cancer research over two days.
Students learned about the latest cancer research underway at the center, as well as Ph.D. options at UF and cancer research careers. The program featured four faculty speakers, five trainee speakers, a panel session and a Ph.D. information session. Students had the opportunity to hear a range of perspectives on what a career in cancer research can be like.
“Our goal is to provide undergraduate students with the opportunity to learn about the multiple facets of cutting-edge cancer research and the available options to become part of the future generation of scientists through admittance to cancer-focused doctoral programs,” said Dietmar Siemann, Ph.D., associate director For education and training at the UF Health Cancer Center.
One participant, Leslie Acheampong, said the experience will position him for success as a cancer researcher. Acheampong, born and raised in West Africa, is majoring in biology at Grambling State University in Louisiana. His family has a history of cancer, and he has witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by patients and their loved ones.
“This personal connection drives my commitment to advancing cancer research,” he said.
Acheampong said he enjoyed the opportunities to hear firsthand from experienced cancer researchers. Highlights included hearing about the latest techniques in cancer genomics, the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and ethical considerations in research.
“It was incredibly inspiring to see how their work directly contributes to advancements in cancer treatment and prevention,” Acheampong said.
Participants were also invited as special guests to the Cancer Center’s annual Research Showcase, held Feb. 12 at the Reitz Union. They had the opportunity to connect with UF faculty and trainees, as well as discover the interdisciplinary cancer research happening at UF during the poster session. Acheampong said he particularly enjoyed hearing the keynote address by Patricia LoRusso, D.O., Ph.D. (hc), FAACR, on modern clinical drug development.
Moving forward, Acheampong’s goal is to become a cancer researcher, focusing on developing innovative cancer therapies.
“I hope to work in a leading research institution like the UF Health Cancer Center where I can collaborate with other scientists to make significant contributions to the field,” he said. “This program solidified my passion for cancer research and equipped me with valuable skills that I will carry forward in my career.”
“This program solidified my passion for cancer research and equipped me with valuable skills that I will carry forward in my career.”
