Biology

The Department of Radiation and Cellular Oncology Division of Cancer and Radiation Biology is composed of full-time Ph.D. scientists, Research Associates and Attending Staff. Members of the biology faculty work closely with a number of biologists, chemists and physicists from other University departments and at the Argonne National Laboratory. In conjunction with the Section of Medical Physics, the Section of Cancer and Radiation Biology conducts a six-week orientation course for the incoming residents in July. This course covers the basic principles of radiation biology including cell survival curve analysis, mechanisms of DNA damage and repair, and radiation sensitizers and protectors. In addition, the course allows the biology faculty the opportunity to acquaint the residents with their current research interests.

The Section of Cancer and Radiation Biology has a firm commitment to basic research. The strength of the section is exemplified by its tremendous breadth of scientific endeavors. Examples include cell cycle regulation, radioprotectors and gene therapy.