Congratulations to Dr. Rachel Belote, Assistant Professor of Molecular Genetics, who has been selected as a FY25 Melanoma Academy Scholar through the Department of War Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs (CDMRP) Melanoma Research Program. The highly competitive program supports early career investigators conducting innovative melanoma research through a national collaborative network focused on mentorship, career development, and scientific collaboration.

The three-year award will support Dr. Belote’s research investigating how melanoma hijacks normal melanocyte biology to drive tumor growth and therapy resistance, with the goal of identifying melanoma-specific vulnerabilities that could lead to earlier, more durable, and less toxic treatment strategies. The award also includes a structured mentorship component through the Melanoma Academy, with Dr. Christin Burd, Professor of Molecular Genetics, serving as Dr. Belote’s designated Career Guide.

We are so proud to have them both in the department!