Unlocking Breakthroughs: Howard University Guppy Talk Showcases Innovative Cancer Research by Students and Early-Career Faculty

Howard University recently hosted the Guppy Talk, showcasing exciting developments in cancer research. This event highlighted their mission to blend scientific innovation with health equity, nurturing future leaders in the field. It was part of Howard’s April Research Month, featuring students and faculty who received the Diversity in Cancer Research pilot grants from the American Cancer Society.

The grants provide crucial funding for early-stage investigators, enabling them to kickstart impactful projects and compete for further funding. Dr. Carla Williams, interim director of the Cancer Center, stressed the importance of events like this for maintaining Howard’s R1 research status and expanding its national influence. She noted, “These pilot grants help researchers prove their capabilities and build competitive proposals.”

One standout project comes from Brian McFarland, a doctoral candidate and Army veteran. His research, titled “Partners in Survival,” aims to support male caregivers who are often overlooked in oncology discussions. Drawing from his own experience caring for his wife during her battle with cancer, McFarland aims to equip caregivers with necessary tools. He believes that a cancer diagnosis impacts not just the patient, but the entire family, and he is dedicated to making sure all caregivers receive the support they need.

“A diagnosis doesn’t just affect the patient — it impacts the whole family,” McFarland said. “We’re here to make sure no one is left behind.”

His work builds on a peer-led model from Marc Heyison, founder of Men Supporting Women With Cancer, offering mental health resources and culturally sensitive support to reduce caregiver burnout.

Another presenter was Kennedy Jester, a master of public health student. Her research investigates how epigenetic modulation may improve outcomes for patients with head and neck cancers, known for being aggressive and hard to treat. She received valuable feedback during the Guppy Talk that helped channel her research focus.

The event also featured interdisciplinary research led by Howard faculty:

• Kholood Ahmad, Ph.D.: Developing an AI tool for early breast cancer detection focused on serving Black women in Washington, D.C., who often face delays in diagnosis.
• Ramin Abolfath, Ph.D.: Studying FLASH radiotherapy to minimize damage to healthy tissues while maximizing treatment precision.
• Shaolei Teng, Ph.D.: Using bioinformatics to explore cancer-linked mutations in peroxidase genes, which may lead to new diagnostic methods.

Dr. Pamela L. Carter-Nolan highlighted the importance of such collaborations. She shared, “Interdisciplinary research provides a well-rounded approach to tackling cancer disparities. Everyone contributes something valuable.”

With these events, Howard University aims not only for scientific excellence but also better communication with the public. Dr. Williams expressed the importance of connecting research with community needs, especially as they explore emerging technologies like AI.

“We need to ensure these innovations benefit all communities, relieving the burden of disease without leaving anyone behind,” Williams noted. The Guppy Talk exemplifies Howard’s commitment to future-ready cancer research and dedicated community support.

Source link