The day-long event highlighted cancer research conducted by the younger generation: students from high school, as well as undergraduate and predoctoral scholars. They were joined by more seasoned postdoctoral scholars, research staff, residents and fellows who shared their latest findings.
“The Ralph de Vere White Symposium gives early-stage investigators invaluable opportunities to sharpen their ideas, build confidence and form meaningful connections,” said cancer center Director Primo “Lucky” Lara Jr. “It also strengthens the pipeline of innovative, patient-centered cancer research for the future.”
The annual event was renamed in 2024 in honor of Professor Emeritus Ralph de Vere White, former director of the cancer center. De Vere White was instrumental in obtaining the National Cancer Institute designation for UC Davis Health as a “comprehensive” cancer center.
Welcome remarks were provided by Janai Carr-Ascher and Miquell Miller, UC Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center assistant directors for the Office of Education, Training and Workforce Development.
The keynote address by Christopher Lucchesi, an assistant professor in the Department of Urologic Surgery, featured his personal story as a cancer survivor to illustrate how to sustain a commitment to research and patients.
Students competed in presentations with winners receiving $500 in cash. Presentations were judged on scientific innovation, significance and ultimate potential for clinical impact, as well as scientific communication skills.
Oral presentation winner
Winners: Conner Suen and Asneh Singh, undergraduate students
Mentor: Christopher Lucchesi
Title: “A Functional-Digital Precision Oncology Platform Integrating AI Histology and 3D Bioprinted Tumoroids to Predict Therapeutic Response”
Poster presentation winner
Winner: Mira Miles, project policy analyst
Mentor: Shehnaz Hussain
Title: “Inflammation and Occupational Exposures in the California Firefighter Cancer Research Study (CAFF-CRS)”
The annual symposium was organized by the Office of Education, Training and Workforce Development.
