Short Course on Experimental Models of Human Cancer

The goal of the annual Jackson Laboratory Short Course on Experimental Models of Human Cancer is to train graduate students, postdocs, and junior investigators in the basic science and application of experimental models of human cancer. The training program will immerse participants and faculty in a unique and highly integrated scientific environment and empower the next generation of scientists tackling human cancer. The integrated program will cover advances in three critical areas: experimental cancer models, modern technology to assess mechanisms and outcomes, and the interplay of the tumor and host genetics as well as tumor microenvironment and the immune system. It will teach classical approaches to mouse and human genetics, modern molecular genetic methodologies, computational and bioinformatics concepts, ontological standards, and scientific and medical ethics. Trainees will participate in lectures, workshops, multi-disciplinary scientific debates, networking and career development sessions, and poster sessions. They will receive practical training in bioinformatics, statistical genetics, and the use and analysis of PDX models. This course will take place at The Jackson Laboratory (JAX), which hosts an NCI-designated Basic Laboratory Cancer Center and is a global resource of mouse models. The proposed 8-day intensive, immersion course focused on graduate students, postdocs, and new investigators will promote active interaction and networking between the participants as well as with the outstanding cadre of lecturers and trainers. Additionally, the Short Course will be delivered in a hybrid format, with online/virtual access to the seminars and, where practical and feasible, the workshops: this was successfully piloted in 2022. The hybrid format broadens participation for scientists who could not otherwise attend. Attendees will be actively recruited, scholarships will be provided to enable in-person attendance, and a virtual option will enable participation by those that are unable to travel. Emphasis will also be placed on best practices for cancer research to address ongoing health care disparities, the need for studies of genetically representative models, and representation of a breadth of human backgrounds within genetic databases and samples.