Catherine Applegate, PhD candidate in Food Science and Human Nutrition (FSHN), researches the effects of diet and obesity on prostate cancer. During the last year of her degree, Applegate was diagnosed with breast cancer – but she was determined not to let the disease interfere with her goals.
While receiving treatment and surgery, Applegate continued her research with John Erdman, professor emeritus (FSHN) and CCIL associate member, became a CCIL Ambassador, and joined the Cancer Research Advocacy Group.
“The Cancer Center at Illinois holds great significance for me as it represents my affiliation to cancer research both from a scientist’s and a patient’s standpoint,” she said. Applegate will also be beginning a Beckman Institute Postdoctoral Fellowship in 2020. Read more.