Interdisciplinary training across four pillars
Designed to foster interdisciplinary training through a structured approach, the PhD in Interdisciplinary Cancer Sciences (ICSP) provides doctoral students with a comprehensive understanding of the cancer research continuum.
Students specialize in one of four program pillars under the supervision of a principal investigator, while also engaging with broader interdisciplinary perspectives through coursework, research, and cohort-based activities.
ICSP Pillars
1 - Cancer Biology: molecular mechanisms governing cancer development and therapeutic response.
2 - Cancer Therapeutics and Diagnostics: development and delivery of novel therapies through clinical trials and the engineering of innovative technologies.
3 - Cancer Etiology, Prevention and Prognosis: cancer risk and outcomes on a population level using epidemiological and omics-based approaches.
4 - Psychosocial Oncology: behavioral and societal issues impacting the health and well-being of individuals dealing with cancer and their caregivers.
Program Requirements
View Course Requirements
Additional Program Requirements
In addition to course requirements and program milestones, participation in the following interdisciplinary cohort-building activities is required annually:
1. Cohort Training Days
Year 1: Held in September, this event introduces new students to diverse perspectives in cancer research through presentations and interactive sessions with clinicians, scientists, and patient partners.
Years 2+: Held each January, these sessions include workshops, career development seminars, networking opportunities, and activities to strengthen soft skills such as communication, leadership, and teamwork.
2. Interdisciplinary Cancer Sciences Research Day
An annual one-day symposium where students present their research advances through oral or poster presentations.
3. Interdisciplinary Cancer Sciences Seminar Series
This series features invited speakers who are experts in one of the four cancer research pillars. Over the year, the series ensures balanced representation across all pillars, highlighting the breadth of interdisciplinary cancer research.
Starting in Year 2, students are required to attend a minimum of four seminars per academic year (September to August) that fall outside their own research discipline, with at least one seminar attended per pillar. Eligible seminars may include those from this series as well as others offered across McGill.
4. Patient Mentorship Program
A cornerstone of the ICSP, the Patient Mentorship Program (PMP) fosters a patient-centered approach to cancer research and training. It brings the perspectives of patient partners into the learning experience, helping students communicate their research effectively to non-expert audiences and reflect on its broader impact.
Students present their research to patient partners and receive feedback on how clearly and meaningfully they conveyed their research topic. Meetings are held twice in the first year and once annually thereafter.