The Friedman Family Doctoral Program in Cancer Biology
The Friedman Family Doctoral Program in Cancer Biology educates students about the fundamentals of biomedical sciences while providing a deep understanding of today’s clinical challenges in developing new treatments for cancer. Joining the program offers you the unique opportunity to train alongside some of the world’s leading basic scientists and clinical researchers in a small-group, hands-on environment.
“The Friedman Family Doctoral Program in Cancer Biology is truly exceptional, allowing students to pursue discovery and translational science across the breadth of cancer science, with outstanding mentors, colleagues, and institutional resources,” says leukemia specialist and physician-scientist Ross L. Levine, MD. “There is no better place to study cancer biology.”
GSK offers more than 130 faculty members who are internationally recognized in their fields, including cancer biology, genomics, immunology, and structural biology. They are devoted to making sure students get the best and most relevant experience possible.
Applications for the Gerstner Sloan Kettering Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences open on August 15, 2025.
Our highly competitive program features class sizes of up to 12 students and a 10-to-1 faculty-to-student ratio.
“I treasure the fact that you can have conversations about your research with such incredible scientists on a relaxed basis and think about the possibilities and outcomes,” says Klavdija Bastl about her first year as a GSK student. “It makes it easier to ask questions and have helpful exchanges directly with the professors, who encourage you to think critically, develop your skills, and make new discoveries in a supportive and collaborative environment.”
All students enter The Friedman Family Doctoral Program in Cancer Biology without a formal commitment to a particular laboratory. This allows our students the flexibility to explore potential research mentors, participate in the first-year curriculum, and learn about new areas of research through meetings with the faculty.
“Each one of us is committed to offering the personal attention, mentorship, and opportunities for professional development that students need to plan for a successful and fulfilling career in the biomedical sciences, wherever they want to go next — whether it be academia, industry, business, or government,” says GSK Dean Michael Overholtzer.
By the end of their first year, students confirm their thesis topic and prepare to begin their full-time dissertation research in year two of the program. They also participate in a clinical apprenticeship, which is intended to give them perspective on how bench work can be applied in the clinic.
The translational impact of their work is often a key reason why students choose to pursue their doctorate at GSK.
“The GSK program aims to equip students with a profound understanding of fundamental biology and adeptness in rigorous research,” says molecular biologist Xiaolan Zhao. “Students’ deep understanding of the inner workings of the cell will pave the way for future innovations in cancer treatment.”
Meet the Program Donors
The Friedman Family Doctoral Program in Cancer Biology is supported by the Friedman Family Foundation. Mr. Friedman has been a member of MSK’s Board since 2005; he previously served from 1994 to 2002 as well. Barbara and Steve Friedman are deeply committed to advancing medical research for the good of people everywhere. At MSK, they have funded SKI’s Research Technology Transformation and established three endowed chairs, an endowed fellowship, and the Friedman Family Foundation Functional Genomics Initiative, all in SKI. Steve and Barbara understand that educating the next generation of cancer scientists is essential to future progress. “MSK trains the future leaders in cancer basic science and clinical research, and we are proud to support the recruitment and training of the best and brightest cancer scientists in the field,” says Steve. “Scientists educated at MSK go on to elevate standards of care for people with cancer worldwide,” says Barbara. “They use the tools they learn to answer the hardest questions and develop treatments and cures that save lives. It is an honor to support them at this critical moment in their careers.”