Dr. Michael Haffner

Associate Professor

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Biography

Michael C. Haffner is a physician-scientist specializing in genitourinary cancers. He is a pathologist who diagnoses patients’ tumors and a research scientist studying the cellular changes that allow tumor cells, particularly prostate tumor cells, to metastasize and spread throughout the body. Dr. Haffner focuses on the cytoskeleton, which is the protein network that provides cells with shape and size and is involved in cellular processes such as division and movement. The shape and size of cancer cells differ from normal cells due to alterations in how cells build and organize their cytoskeletons. These cytoskeletal changes promote tumor progression and metastasis, but their exact connections to cancer remain unclear. Through his research, Dr. Haffner aims to identify new targets for future therapies designed to halt advanced prostate cancer.

Research Interests

Requirements for Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center

Doctorate Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
TOEFL
Listening
Required:17
Reading
Required:17
Writing
Required:17
Speaking
Required:17
Total
Required:80
IELTS
Listening
Required:6
Reading
Required:6
Writing
Required:6
Speaking
Required:6
Overall
Required:6.5
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree in a relevant scientific field Strong background in biology, chemistry, and mathematics Prior research experience (highly recommended)
Application Checklist
  • Online application through UW Graduate School
  • Personal Statement
  • Resume/CV
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Unofficial transcripts
  • English proficiency scores (for international applicants)
Specialization Notes

Fred Hutch provides training for many UW-affiliated PhD programs. This entry covers the interdisciplinary Molecular and Cellular Biology (MCB) program which encompasses departments like Biology, Medicine, and Human Biology.