Unlocking Cancer’s Secrets: Kennesaw State Professor Awarded NIH Grant for Groundbreaking Research

Kennesaw, GA | Oct 8, 2025

Joanna Wardwell-Ozgo, an assistant professor at Kennesaw State University, is on a mission to unravel the mysteries of cancer. She recently secured a hefty $720,000 grant from the National Institutes of Health. This funding will not only enhance research opportunities for undergraduate students but also dig into how hormones influence cancer.

Wardwell-Ozgo explains her approach: “We want to explore how hormones interact with cells and what those interactions mean for different parts of the body.” During puberty, for instance, the same hormone can trigger various changes in different tissues.

“These hormone pathways can lead to growth, death, or changes,” she says. “This grant will help us understand why these pathways are so complex and how the body responds specifically to these signals.”

Her lab focuses on the role of hormones in both development and disease. Wardwell-Ozgo’s journey began at Baylor College of Medicine, where she earned her doctorate. A postdoctoral fellowship at Emory University deepened her knowledge of hormone impacts on cell growth, revealing significant gaps in our understanding.

“I realized we have much to learn about hormones and their effects during development. This knowledge is key to figuring out diseases,” she emphasizes.

In addition to cancer research, the grant will support undergraduate research. Wardwell-Ozgo values this aspect highly, recalling her own experience as a biology major. She thought the only path in science was through medicine until she got involved in research. This involvement sparked her curiosity and passion for science.

“I want to provide opportunities for students to dive into this fascinating world,” she shares.

Expanding Horizons

Recent studies highlight the importance of undergraduate research in shaping future scientists. According to a survey by the Council on Undergraduate Research, students who engage in research are more likely to pursue advanced degrees and careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

The complexity of hormone signaling is not just an academic concern. A recent report from the American Cancer Society emphasizes the growing recognition of hormonal factors in various cancers, from breast to prostate cancer. Over the years, research in this area has increased, indicating a shift in focus toward understanding these biological pathways.

Social media is also buzzing about Wardwell-Ozgo’s work, with students and researchers alike discussing the ethics and implications of hormonal research. Platforms like Twitter often feature hashtags like #CancerResearch and #UndergraduateOpportunity, showcasing public interest.

By bridging undergraduate education with groundbreaking research, Wardwell-Ozgo and Kennesaw State University are paving the way for a deeper understanding of cancer and its hormonal connections.

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