Faculty: INSTITUTE OF GRADUATE PGROGRAMS This major focuses on the molecular mechanisms underlying cancer development, progression, and treatment. Students explore key areas such as cancer biology, molecular genetics, genomics, proteomics, and pharmacology. The program emphasizes laboratory techniques, research methodologies, and the understanding of clinical applications. Graduates are prepared for careers in cancer research, drug development, clinical trials, and related fields. **Learning Objectives:** - Understand the fundamentals of cancer biology and molecular oncology. - Develop skills in molecular genetics, genomics, and proteomics. - Learn techniques for studying cancer mechanisms and developing targeted therapies. - Explore the principles of pharmacology and drug development in oncology. - Understand the role of clinical trials and translational research in cancer treatment. - Analyze challenges and opportunities in cancer research and treatment. - Develop teamwork and problem-solving skills for oncology research projects. **Major Outline:** 1. **Introduction to Molecular Oncology** - Overview of cancer biology, molecular mechanisms, and current research trends. - Fundamentals of cancer initiation, progression, and metastasis. 2. **Cancer Biology** - Principles of cancer biology, including cellular and molecular changes in cancer cells. - Techniques for studying cancer cell biology and tumor microenvironment. 3. **Molecular Genetics and Genomics** - Fundamentals of molecular genetics and genomics in cancer research. - Techniques for genetic analysis, sequencing, and bioinformatics. 4. **Proteomics in Cancer Research** - Principles of proteomics and its applications in cancer research. - Techniques for protein analysis, mass spectrometry, and functional proteomics. 5. **Cancer Pharmacology** - Fundamentals of cancer pharmacology, including drug targets, mechanisms of action, and resistance. - Techniques for developing and testing anticancer drugs. 6. **Clinical Trials and Translational Research** - Principles of clinical trials and translational research in oncology. - Techniques for designing, conducting, and analyzing clinical trials. 7. **Epigenetics in Cancer** - Fundamentals of epigenetics and its role in cancer development and progression. - Techniques for studying epigenetic modifications and their therapeutic implications. 8. **Research Methods in Molecular Oncology** - Principles of research methods in molecular oncology, including experimental design, data collection, and analysis. - Techniques for conducting and evaluating cancer research. 9. **Practicum in Molecular Oncology** - Real-world laboratory and research experiences, including observations, internships, and hands-on projects. - Techniques for applying learned skills in practical oncology research settings. 10. **Capstone Project in Molecular Oncology** - Comprehensive project to apply learned skills in cancer research, drug development, or clinical trials. - Techniques for delivering a polished and innovative oncology research project. **Assessment Methods:** - Cancer biology projects, molecular genetics analyses, genomics research papers, proteomics studies, pharmacology reports, clinical trial designs, epigenetics research, research methodology papers, practicum reports, capstone projects, group projects, and internships. **Recommended Textbooks:** - "The Biology of Cancer" by Robert A. Weinberg. - "Molecular Biology of Cancer: Mechanisms, Targets, and Therapeutics" by George Klein. - "Cancer Genomics: From Bench to Bedside" by William Pao and Harold Varmus. - "Proteomics in Cancer Research" by Emanuel Petricoin et al. - "Cancer Pharmacology" by Beverly A. Teicher. **Prerequisites:** Basic knowledge of biology, chemistry, and molecular biology. Suitable for students interested in cancer research, drug development, and clinical trials. **Major Duration:** Typically 4 years for a bachelor's degree, including coursework, projects, practicum, and internships. Advanced degrees may take additional years. **Certification:** Graduates may receive a degree in Molecular Oncology and pursue further specialization or professional certifications in cancer research, drug development, or clinical trials. **Target Audience:** Aspiring cancer researchers, drug developers, clinical trial specialists, and professionals seeking to specialize in molecular oncology. This major equips students with the molecular, research, and practical skills needed to excel in molecular oncology, supporting advancements in cancer research, drug development, and treatment.