The cancer community will come together for a two-day conference designed to celebrate Black contributions in cancer research and to connect future investigators and collaborators, in order to pave the way for the next generation of Black cancer research professionals. Black in Cancer, a U.S./U.K.-based organization, and the Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research are co-hosts of the 2024 Black in Cancer Conference, set for June 20–21 at the Natcher Conference Center on the National Institutes of Health campus in Bethesda.

Frederick-area biotechnology professionals got an inside look at advances in mass spectrometry as part of the quarterly Biotech Connector Series at the Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research.

To celebrate the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, the Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research is co-hosting a panel of successful women scientists who will discuss their career paths, allyship and mentorship, and strategies for advancement. The discussion will take place during the third annual Women in Science Speak event on February 9. A virtual option will also be available. The event is free, but registration is required.

Viruses are often regarded as villains in the story of humanity, but what if they didn’t always have to be? What if these microscopic invaders could serve as our allies instead—for instance, helping us treat cancer, protect against infections, and kill drug-resistant bacteria? This isn’t wishful thinking. They already do, and scientists are exploiting them to help us further. Last year’s HIV Dynamics and Replication Program conference provided a peek behind that curtain.

The 2023 David Derse Memorial Lecture and Award coincided with Día de los Muertos, scientist emeritus Stephen Hughes, Ph.D., noted at the event. It was fitting happenstance. The Day of the Dead, as it’s called in English, is observed primarily in Mexico to celebrate the memory and legacy of deceased loved ones. In a similar spirit, the memorial lecture in Frederick united scientists to enjoy each other’s company and—for the 12th straight year—honor the legacy of David Derse, Ph.D.