Ph.D. Application Letter: Oncology

Could you check my cover letter? It is for a Ph.D. in Oncology.


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“The surgery went well and I am sure the tumor is benign. The pathology results will confirm this.” These were words my mother’s surgeon spoke to me just seven days before she was diagnosed with breast cancer for the second time. Since then, she has completed radiation therapy and must have two MRIs per year for the next five years. Early detection has significantly increased the survival rate of common cancers. In addition, genetic screenings have aided doctors in selecting appropriate interventions for patients. Unfortunately, many of these tests are invasive and require a tissue biopsy that further stimulates mitogen production. Liquid biopsies can potentially be used for non-invasive screening of patients, while providing detailed information for treatment selection and monitoring response to therapy. In cases such as that of my mother, these liquid biopsies may replace the need for routine MRIs and prevent the need for surgical interventions because cancers can be detected before symptoms arise. Furthermore, a liquid biopsy might have helped her oncologist to select a more effective intervention the first time she has cancer, not three years ago.

This Ph.D. project at XYZ immediately piqued my interest, both because of the nature of the material and the significant therapeutic importance of this topic. Last summer I attended a meeting in ABC, and since then have not stop thinking about exosomes. Researchers were interested in the role of exosomes in stem-cell biology, specifically how and if exosomes could affect differentiation in pluripotent stem cells. Their interest was in the role of exosomes in cell communication and if they could be manipulated for therapeutic interventions, including tissue engineering. The idea was the miRNA containing exosomes were used between cells to modulate gene transcription and that by studying this signal one could determine the necessary signals for directed differentiation.

While I have always been academically motivated to pursue a Ph.D., my personal experience has paved the way for a career in cancer research. My desire to pursue a Ph.D. stems from being ultimately able to solve complex problems and provide solutions that will benefit multiple patients. In addition, the nature of oncology being interdisciplinary makes it such a unique and exciting field. Having worked in a variety of specializations, I have developed a wide knowledge base that will help me to not only achieve my aim of a validated liquid biopsy approach, but to consider its application for other pathologies.

After graduating from my master’s, I have continued to be actively involved in research. To do this and to build upon my knowledge in patient care, I became a research assistant at EFG. Actively participating in translational research as well as spending valuable time in an academic department allows me to constantly learn and challenge myself scientifically.

My educational and professional background has prepared me for this challenge. I cannot wait to further enrich my education working and learning from your outstanding faculty and to make a contribution to the field of cancer research. I look forward to hearing from you and discussing my qualifications in further detail