Dissertation Awards

At GSBS, we take pride in recognizing outstanding scholarly achievements through our Dissertation Awards. These awards serve as a testament to the dedication and excellence demonstrated by our graduate students in their research endeavors. Each recipient is honored with a $5,000 award and acknowledged during the GSBS Student Research Day (GSRD) award ceremony, a revered annual event held in June.

About the Awards

GSBS recognizes two graduates each year for exceptional PhD dissertation research:

• Alfred G. Knudson, Jr., Outstanding Dissertation Award: This award honors a GSBS PhD graduate whose advisor was based at MD Anderson Cancer Center.
• Michael R. Blackburn Outstanding Dissertation Award: This award honors a GSBS PhD graduate whose advisor was based at UTHealth Houston.

Selection Process

1. Nomination Phase: In early January each year, the GSBS Faculty receives a list of PhD students who graduated during the previous calendar year. Faculty members are encouraged to nominate deserving candidates, including their own students and/ or those on whose committees they served.
2. Nominee Submission: Nominees are contacted by GSBS and requested to submit an updated CV along with two letters of recommendation. Additionally, if the student's dissertation is not publicly available due to an embargo, a PDF copy of the final dissertation is solicited.
3. Evaluation by Faculty Reviewers: Faculty members from MD Anderson and UTHealth Houston undertake the responsibility of reviewing the applications from their respective institutions. The evaluation process emphasizes the overall impact of the student's dissertation, prioritizing scholarly contributions over writing proficiency.

• Alfred G. Knudson Jr. Outstanding Dissertation Award

  Establishment and Purpose:

  The MD Anderson Cancer Center Faculty Senate established the Alfred G. Knudson, Jr., Outstanding Dissertation Award to recognize original research conducted by students while pursuing a doctor of philosophy degree at GSBS. This award acknowledges the invaluable scientific supervision provided by MD Anderson faculty members to GSBS students.

  Legacy and Contribution:

  The Knudson Award was initiated in 1997 to honor the distinguished scientist and educator, Alfred G. Knudson Jr., MD, PhD. Dr. Knudson's groundbreaking contributions to the field of genetics, including the two-hit theory of cancer causation, have profoundly influenced our understanding of cancer biology. His tenure as dean and professor of medical genetics at GSBS and his pioneering research at MD Anderson have left an indelible mark on cancer research worldwide.

  In Memoriam:

  Dr. Knudson's enduring legacy extends beyond his scientific achievements. His conceptual framework for understanding cancer continues to shape contemporary oncological research. Dr. Knudson passed away on July 10, 2016, leaving behind a rich legacy of innovative thought and scientific inquiry.

  Current Recipient:

  2023 – Vidhi Chandra, PhD (Advisor: Florencia McAllister, MD)

  For Previous Recipients, please click here.

• Michael R. Blackburn Outstanding Dissertation Award

  Establishment and Purpose:

  The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Houston Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences (GSBS) established the Michael R. Blackburn Outstanding Dissertation Award to recognize original research conducted by students at UTHealth Houston toward a doctor of philosophy degree. This award underscores the significance of quality research and faculty mentoring in the academic journey of GSBS students.

  Founding and Renaming:

  Initially established in 2015 by Dr. Blackburn and Dr. Michelle Barton, who served as deans of the GSBS, the award was renamed in 2023 to honor Dr. Blackburn's exceptional scientific contributions, mentorship of students, and unwavering support of the faculty.

  Continued Excellence:

  Since its inception, the Michael R. Blackburn Outstanding Dissertation Award has celebrated outstanding research achievements and the impactful contributions of GSBS students to their respective fields of study. The award reflects a commitment to excellence in scholarship and mentorship within the UTHealth Houston community.

  Current Recipient:
  
  2023 – Melissa Franch (Advisor: Fabricio Do Monte, DVM, PhD)

  For Previous Recipients, please click here.