On May 7, the University of Kentucky Markey Cancer Center’s Teresa Fan and Kate Zaytseva were awarded the 2020 Markey Women Strong Distinguished Researcher Grant. The researchers, as chosen by the UK Markey Cancer Foundation’s Markey Women Strong members, each receive a $50,000 grant to fund their proposed cancer research.

Teresa Fan, Ph.D., is a professor in the UK College of Medicine Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology. Her research focuses on the early detection of pancreatic cancer.

Kate Zaytseva, Ph.D., is an assistant professor in the UK College of Medicine Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology. Her research focuses on the role lipid metabolism plays in colorectal cancer.

Started in the summer of 2016, Markey Women Strong comprises philanthropic women and men who aim to make a meaningful difference in cancer research by funding female researchers focused on advancing the fight against cancer at the University of Kentucky.

Each member of Markey Women Strong contributes an annual donation of $1,000.  Together, the members of Markey Women Strong decide which UK Markey Cancer Center researchers receive the research support.

The year 2020 marks the 4th year, and $400,000, in funding of female-led cancer research at the Markey Cancer Center.  

 “Even today, the fight against cancer never stops, which is why we at the Markey Cancer Foundation are so grateful for this group of donors dedicated to funding important, game-changing cancer research,” said Mike Delzotti, president and CEO of the Markey Cancer Foundation. “From our generous members to the impressive and talented cancer researchers, Markey Women Strong is one of the central reasons why the UK Markey Cancer Center is where Kentucky comes to beat cancer.”

Learn more about the Markey Women Strong program or becoming a member here.