GEMS T32
GEMS T32
The Cancer Genetics, Epigenetics, Models, & Signaling (GEMS T32) Training Program is a robust two-year predoctoral training program that leverages existing Huntsman Cancer Institute research and infrastructure strengths in cancer genetics and epigenetics, cancer modeling, and cancer cell signaling. The program integrates trainee interactions with cancer patients, cancer clinicians, and our Disease Centers to provide broad multidisciplinary training in cancer biology.
Program Goal
Prepare young scientists who are broadly trained in cancer biology and well-versed in multidisciplinary research for exciting, impactful, and rewarding opportunities in cancer-focused post-doctoral fellowships or other cancer-related, research-intensive careers.
Focus Areas
- Cancer genetics & epigenetics
- Models to study cancer
- Cell signaling
For more information, contact the principal investigators or Kelly Chanthapanya, CRTEC program coordinator, at Kelly.Chanthapanya@hci.utah.edu.
Accepts
Predoctoral Only
Important Dates
Applications open: February 13, 2026
Applications due: April 20, 2026
Funding begins: July 1st 2026
Principal Investigators
Donald E. Ayer, PhD
Sheri L. Holmen, PhD
Sean V. Tavtigian, PhD
Trainees
Henry Arnold
Henry Arnold graduated from the University of Washington in 2021 with a degree in Biochemistry. After graduating, he worked as a research technician for two years studying small cell lung cancer at the Fred Hutch Cancer Center before joining the Molecular Biology PhD program at the University of Utah in 2023. Now, in Dr. Eric Snyder's lab, he studies the epigenetic effects of oncogenic signaling on cell identity in lung adenocarcinoma. Henry spends his free time backcountry skiing and mountain biking.
Annabel Lee
Annabel Lee graduated from the University of Utah in 2020 with a degree in biology and minor in chemistry. She is a third-year PhD student in Ben Myers lab where she studies a critical developmental cell signaling pathway, the Hedgehog pathway, and how its constitutive activation contributes to the oncogenesis of Group 2 medulloblastomas. Outside of lab, Annabel enjoys trail running with my dog, knitting, pottery, and spending time with loved ones.
Miles Piper
Miles Piper is an MD/PhD trainee in the Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP) at the University of Utah. Originally from Wyoming, Miles earned his bachelor’s degrees in Biochemistry and Mathematics from Arizona State University in 2019. Prior to his graduate training, Miles investigated tumor immunology and novel radioimmunotherapeutic approaches for pancreatic cancer at the University of Colorado. Miles is currently pursuing his doctoral research in the lab of Dr. Conan Kinsey in the Department of Oncological Sciences, where his work focuses on the clinical implementation of first-in-class RAS inhibitors in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), specifically characterizing mechanisms of acquired resistance and developing novel combinatorial therapeutic approaches. Outside of the lab, he enjoys golfing, playing the piano, and spending time with his dog
Samantha (Sammy) Stone
Sammy Stone is from Rhode Island and completed her undergraduate studies at Vassar College where she studied chemistry and swam competitively on the varsity swim team. She is an MD-PhD student pursuing her PhD in Dr. Arabella Young's laboratory in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology at Huntsman Cancer Institute. Her research is aimed at identifying clinical biomarkers of response and toxicity to cancer immune checkpoint inhibitor therapies. Outside of lab, she enjoys hiking with her dogs, skiing, and trying new restaurants in SLC.
Sophia Varady
Sophia Varady is a third-year PhD candidate in the Roh-Johnson lab in the department of Biochemistry where she studies how chimeric antigen receptor expressing macrophages interact with immune cells to promote glioblastoma tumor control. Sophia received her undergraduate degree from Reed College where she received training in Cell Biology. In her free time, you can find Sophia Splitboarding or on the reservoir.
Jillian Wright
Jillian Wright was raised in Phoenix and completed her undergraduate studies at Arizona State University, where she studied Biological Sciences with a minor in Music Performance. She is now pursuing her PhD in Dr. Gregory Ducker's Lab in the Department of Biochemistry. Her project investigates lipid metabolic regulation in hepatocellular carcinoma through a variety of techniques, including liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Beyond the lab, she enjoys hiking with her dog in Millcreek Canyon, playing video games with friends, and exploring Utah with her classmates and colleagues.