A University of Iowa researcher is leading efforts to develop new treatments for a rare and extremely aggressive pediatric brain cancer. “The pediatric patients I have had the privilege of helping treat have had a profound impact on me, both in my training and in my current clinical position, as these patients are incredibly resilient in the midst of a scary time,” says Michelle Howard, PhD, assistant professor of radiation oncology. Howard and her team are leading efforts to develop treatments for DIPG, a pediatric cancer with a median five-year survival rate of only 2%.

The Howard Lab joined the department's yearly Holiday Gingerbread Competition with a Grinch-inspired gingerbread house to bring a little Whoville magic to the lab. It was a fun way to celebrate the season together (and yes, we took it very seriously).