Course Descriptions
Year 1: Fall Semester
Research Methods and Cancer Development (1 credit)
TBA
TBIO-502 Biostatistics (3 credits)
Introduction to biostatistics.
TBIO-571 Cancer Epidemiology (3 credits)
This class will provide an introduction to epidemiology methods with a focus on methodological issues relevant to cancer research. Examples from “real” studies and issues will be used throughout the course. There will be assignments given each week for students to put into practice some of the material introduced in class.
TBIO-508 Tumor Biology I: Cellular and Molecular Aspects of the Transformed Cell (4 credits)
Designed to provide students with an integrative overview of mechanisms of growth control and malignant transformation by physical, chemical, and viral mechanisms. Introduction to growth factors, oncogenes, and suppressor genes includes an introduction to means of reverting or blocking malignant behavior with particular emphasis on biochemical and molecular mechanisms.
TBIO-526 Research and Applied Ethics (2 credits)
Professors Peshkin and Fitzgerald (Department of Oncology).
TBIO-581 Molecular Epidemiology Seminar (1 credit)
Gain familiarity with literature sources and specific laboratory tests used in determinations of risk factors involved in cancer and disease susceptibility. Learn criteria with which to assess molecular epidemiology studies. Lectures and journal club assignments will be given.
Year 1: Spring Semester
1401-531-01 Cell and Molecular Biology Lab (3 credits, UDC)
Basic tissue culture technique; microscopy; introduction to protein gel electrophoresis and western blotting; introduction to DNA isolation, gel electrophoresis, cloning and southern blotting.
TBIO-532-01 Principles and Practice in Behavioral Science in Cancer Control (2 credits)
This course provides an understanding of the general principles and practices involved in cancer control through behavior and behavior change at the individual and population levels. In addition, it covers theory and applied aspects of this field.
1333-500-01 Dietary Cancer Prevention/Nutrition (2 credits, UDC)
The course will consist of presentations primarily by the faculty and postdoctoral fellows, and class discussions of any materials provided to the students in advance. Students may be required to read up to two papers per week, and are required to participate in all class discussions.
1401-585-01 Research Methods and Career Development (4 credits, UDC)
This course is designed to acquaint the students with the techniques and methods required to carry out care prevention and control activities. It will cover: health education theories and models; a basic overview of cancer; behavior changes and its connection to cancer prevention and control; basic counseling skills and communication techniques; lifestyle modifications and cancer prevention; and organizing and implementation of cancer outreach projects.
1415-550-01 Environmental Health (2 credits, UDC)
TBA
Year 2: Fall Semester
TBIO-525 Cancer Genetics (3 credits)
Basic concepts of human genetics as applied to cancer, including pedigree interpretation and understanding of single gene disorders vs. mutifactorial inheritance patterns. Analysis of oncogene, tumor suppressor, and DNA repair gene mutations, which influence both familial and sporadic cancers, will be conducted. Students will master concepts such as variable expressivity, incomplete penetrance, mosaicism and new mutation. Mouse models in cancer research, pharmacogenetics, and epigenetics in cancer will be discussed. Lectures will include application of microarray and exome sequencing at the population level.
Research Project (3 credits)