University of Massachusetts Amherst

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Molly Hoffenberg

Involvement: 

Award: 

Undergraduate Research Award

Bio: 

Molly Hoffenberg is a senior and member of the Commonwealth Honors college pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in Pre-Veterinary Science (Class of 2024). Under the mentorship of Dr. Kathleen Arcaro, her current research is looking into the use of DNA methylation as a biomarker for individualized breast cancer risk. After graduation, she plans to attend veterinary school and pursue research in veterinary oncology.

Research: 

Globally, breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer with over 2.3 million new cases detected in 2020. This is 1 in 8 women developing breast cancer over their lifetime. This leaves researchers wondering if there is a diagnostic tool that can predict breast cancer risk. Specifically, my honors thesis research is looking at the predictive value of DNA methylation as a biomarker for early signs of breast cancer formation. Although my research is still ongoing, the potential outcomes could help transform millions of lives. I have had multiple family members and close family friends pass away from breast cancer. Personally, I feel as though I am contributing to research that could help prevent other families from suffering from losing a loved one.

Student Award Academic Year: