Grant Allows ASU to Participate in Groundbreaking Lung Cancer Research

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Grant Allows ASU to Participate in Groundbreaking Lung Cancer Research

www.alasu.edu

The National Science Foundation (NSF) has awarded a $500,000 grant to Alabama State University's Cancer Research Center (CRC) to both design and develop an affordable point-of-care device for the diagnosis of non-invasive, early lung cancer.

The grant is part of the NSF's Excellence in Research program and its usage includes developing a functionalized carbon-dot biosensor to aid in the detection of lung cancer, explained ASU's Dr. Manoj K. Mishra, the project's principal investigator, as well as the director of the CRC.

"This grant offers a unique opportunity for Alabama State University's Cancer Research Center to lead groundbreaking research at the intersection of healthcare and advanced technology," Mishra said. "By focusing on designing and developing an affordable, non-invasive diagnostic tool for lung cancer, the project aligns with the pressing global health needs and supports innovation in early cancer detection."

Dr. Mishra shared that in addition to providing cutting-edge research and the creation of a new device, the grant also offers valuable research experience for ASU students.

"This grant presents a fantastic opportunity for ASU's students to provide them with hands-on experience at the forefront of innovative healthcare technology through a combination of knowledge from various fields, such as chemistry, engineering, and medicine," stated Mishra. "Our students can broaden their skill sets and work across disciplines, enhancing their academic and professional development."

 

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ASU's Summer Internship Program: Advancing Cancer Research​

ASU's Summer Internship Program: Advancing Cancer Research

www.alasu.edu

Alabama State University (ASU) is currently hosting its third summer internship program dedicated to cancer research. While this is the third cohort of students participating in the program, the previous two iterations were held at Auburn University, with ASU students typically interning there. This year marks a significant milestone as the program is fully hosted at ASU, strengthening its commitment to fostering research opportunities within the University.

The program, spanning eight weeks, is designed to immerse students in cutting-edge cancer research. This year, a total of 12 students are participating, all of whom are currently enrolled at Alabama State University. The interns are engaged in a diverse range of research areas, reflecting the complexity and multifaceted nature of cancer studies.

Areas of Research

The participating students are exploring various critical aspects of cancer research. Their projects include studying how artificial intelligence (AI) can help reduce cancer, with a focus on pancreatic and prostate cancers. The program also investigates neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, and how they relate to cancer research. Additionally, the use of Geographical Information Systems (GIS) in cancer mapping is a key part of their work, emphasizing the role of spatial analysis in understanding disease distribution and environmental influences.