Research

Georgia Cancer Coalition Distinguished Scholars


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The Georgia Cancer Coalition, an independent, not-for profit organization that aims to reduce cancer deaths in the state, has named four College of Public Health researchers Distinguished Cancer Scholars.

The Coalition selects scientists engaged in the most promising areas of cancer research. The researchers receive $50,000 to $150,000 annually for five years to support their research efforts. The University of Georgia matches the coalition’s investment, with the goal of strengthening the state’s research talent, capacity and infrastructure.

The College of Public Health’s Scholars are:

  • Kevin Dobbin, Ph.D., assistant professor of biostatistics
  • Claire Robb, assistant professor of epidemiology
  • John Vena, head of the department of epidemiology and biostatistics
  • Jia-Sheng Wang, M.D., Ph.D., professor and department head of environmental health science, College of Public Health.

Dobbin comes to UGA from the National Cancer Institute. His research focuses on modifying traditional statistical study design and analysis methods to accelerate the rate at which laboratory findings are translated into clinical tools that can be used to improve patient outcomes.

Robb’s research has focused on physical function and psychosocial factors that impact older cancer patients. Her goal is to better understand factors that contribute to treatment outcomes in older patients and to eliminate disparities in treatment of the elderly.

Vena, University of Georgia Foundation Professor, studies factors that affect the health of populations and is currently researching occupational and environmental risk factors that impact breast, lung and bladder cancers.

Wang’s research focuses on the impact of environmental toxins on the formation of liver and esophageal cancers. He’s also a world leader in exploring the role natural products and dietary supplements may play in preventing cancer in high-risk populations.

Begun in 2001, the Georgia Cancer Coalition’s Distinguished Cancer Clinicians and Scientists program is an investment in Georgia’s future as a national leader in cancer control. The Scholars’ history of grants, publications and patents as well as their potential for attracting future funding is considered.

Scholar selection is based on how the applicant’s research relates to the goals of the Coalition, the research priorities of the National Cancer Institute and the strategic plan of the sponsoring institution. Applications are reviewed by a scientific review committee and an advisory review committee appointed by the Coalition in cooperation with Georgia’s research universities. Members rank candidates according to predetermined scientific and technical criteria.

“The National Cancer Institute has identified areas of discovery that hold promise for making significant progress against all cancers. The Distinguished Cancer Clinicians and Scientists program is the cornerstone of the Georgia Cancer Coalition’s efforts to advance scientific discovery into the prevention, treatment, causes and cures of cancer. These scientists and clinicians play an important role in positioning Georgia as a national leader in cancer research,” said Bill Todd, president and chief executive officer.