Hood, Frederick National Lab Will Renew Popular Scientific Symposium

FREDERICK, Maryland—Hood College and the Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research have partnered to cohost an annual scientific symposium in the tradition of the landmark Oncogene Meeting, a national fixture in Frederick for more than 20 years.

A recently signed, three-year Memorandum of Understanding between the two institutions also will expand research and training opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students at the Frederick National Laboratory and provide professional development programs for Hood faculty and national laboratory staff.

The Oncogene Meeting, held from 1985 to 2004, was a national focal point for scientists following the discovery that genetic mutations can cause cancer. The meeting promulgated research collaborations, innovative ideas and new areas of cancer research. The new agreement will revive the series with annual topics reflecting the “cutting-edge” of current research.

“This is such an exciting opportunity to bring scientists and faculty together to learn and share ideas on the forefront of the biomedical sciences,” said Ethan Dmitrovsky, M.D., laboratory director of the Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research and president of the laboratory’s current prime contractor, Leidos Biomedical Research, Inc., signer of the agreement.

“We at Hood are excited about the mutually beneficial activities that comprise this unique partnership, building on a long, shared history between our two institutions,” said Andrea E. Chapdelaine, president of Hood College. “This agreement enables Hood College and the Frederick National Laboratory to work together to advance our goals of increasing access to STEM-related careers for all students and together serve the public good through advancements in science and education.”

The student research and training program will enrich the College’s commitment to applied learning to facilitate Hood graduates’ employment in the biotechnology and research industry. Frederick National Laboratory staff will have the opportunity to teach at Hood, while Hood faculty will engage in collaborative research at the Frederick National Laboratory.

The Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research is dedicated to improving human health through discovery and innovation in the biomedical sciences, focusing on cancer, AIDS, and rapid response to emerging infectious diseases. The facility is currently operated by Leidos Biomedical Research, Inc., and sponsored by the National Cancer Institute.

Media Contact