Dr. Dipanjan Chowdhury

Professor

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Biography

Dipanjan Chowdhury is a Professor in the Department of Radiation Oncology at Harvard Medical School. His research focuses on understanding the mechanisms of DNA double-strand break (DSB) repair, which is critical for maintaining genomic stability and cell health. He investigates the mechanistic pathways of DSBs including homologous recombination (HR) and non-homologous end joining (NHEJ), which determine the cell's response to DNA damage. His work has revealed that the competition between these pathways varies among different cell types and phases of the cell cycle, which has significant implications for cancer therapy. Notably, he has explored how the loss of various DNA repair proteins, such as BRCA1, can influence tumor sensitivity to therapies like poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitors and platinum-based drugs. Additionally, Chowdhury has conducted extensive research on microRNAs that modulate DSB repair proteins, impacting therapeutic outcomes for patients with BRCA1-deficient tumors. His innovative use of CRISPR-Cas9 technology has greatly advanced the understanding of genetic factors that restore DSB repair mechanisms in cancer cells. Through his research, he aims to uncover the intricate biological pathways involved in DSB repair and their therapeutic potential in oncology.

Research Interests

Requirements for Harvard Medical School

Doctorate Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
TOEFL
Total
Required:100
IELTS
Overall
Required:7
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree Undergraduate preparation in the sciences Biology Chemistry Physics
Application Checklist
  • Online application form
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Personal Statement
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Transcripts
  • CV/Resume
  • Application fee ($105)
Specialization Notes

Administered by the Division of Medical Sciences (DMS). GRE is not required and will not be considered for BBS, Immunology, and Neuroscience.