Briana B
- Research Program Mentor

PhD candidate at University of Chicago

Expertise

biology, cancer biology

Bio

Hi Everyone! I'm Briana Banks, a second year PhD candidate in Cancer Biology at the University of Chicago. My research interests include elucidating metabolic and epigenetic factors that lead to disproportionate rates of breast cancer in vulnerable human populations. Specifically, connecting the link between chronic psychological stress during key developmental periods (puberty and early adulthood), and breast cancer risk and development. Aside, from research I am very passionate about mentorship and outreach. Training the next generation of scientists is of utmost importance to me! I also love to travel and would consider myself a huge foodie.

Project ideas

Project ideas are meant to help inspire student thinking about their own project. Students are in the driver seat of their research and are free to use any or none of the ideas shared by their mentors.

Glucocorticoid Receptor Activation and Breast Cancer Progression

A literary review of a key stress pathway and its impact on breast cancer progression. Elucidating how activation of the glucocorticoid receptor and its downstream target genes lead to breast cancer metastasis and invasion.