My graduate training was focused primarily on the genetic epidemiology of hereditary prostate cancer and prostate cancer disparity. While my graduate training provided an excellent atmosphere for learning the techniques and methods of genetic research, I forged a deep appreciation and curiosity about the complexity of prostate cancer. This early exposure fostered a strong interested and dedication to elucidating the genetic mechanisms underlying prostate cancer development and progression. During my fellowship, working closely with a diverse breadth of experts including urologists, oncologists, pathologists as well as basic scientists has furthered my knowledge of prostate cancer. Specifically, my exposure to the clinical aspects of prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment has given me new insight into the phenotypic subtleties of prostate cancer. My daily interactions with clinical professionals and patients have provided invaluable insight into the logistical challenges of translational research as well as valuable experience in conducting and managing translational research projects. Working in New Orleans, LA, in itself provides fertile ground for my continuing interest in exploring the genetic underpinnings of prostate cancer disparity; the access and availability of a large number of African American patients facilitates many exciting and relevant disparity research opportunities. From a prostate cancer genetics perspective, my present and long-term goal is to help elucidate the genetic mechanisms driving prostate cancer by investigating prostate cancer heterogeneity in a comprehensive approach. Through my early work in hereditary prostate cancer in African Americans to my present work, my goal is to discover genetic polymorphisms and/or structural changes which may lead to biomarker development and therapeutic targets.
