Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance is proud to support five outstanding scientists through our Early Career Investigator Grants, part of the $6 million in new research OCRA is funding in 2025.
These grants are essential to ensure that promising researchers with an established commitment to ovarian and related gynecologic cancers can continue to focus their efforts on these urgent and often overlooked diseases.
This is the latest installment in our grantee spotlight series, with more to come as we continue expanding our investment in research this year.
Meet the Researchers
Erin George, MD, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Inc.
Dr. George is building lab models to study how cancer evolves, working to find the most effective sequence of treatments to improve outcomes. Learn more about Dr. George’s research project.
John Krais, PhD, Washington University in St. Louis
Dr. Krais is testing a gene found in many tumors and how it may help cancer cells survive, with the goal of identifying new therapeutic targets to guide treatment. This grant was made possible in part by a generous donation from The Melitta S. and Joan M. Pick Charitable Trust. Learn more about Dr. Krais’ research project.
Rachael Turner, MD, PhD, University of Rochester
Dr. Turner is focusing on a tumor biomarker that may block the immune system and could be a key to improving how ovarian cancer responds to immunotherapy. Learn more about Dr. Turner’s research project.
Yemin Wang, PhD, University of British Columbia
Dr. Wang is investigating how hard-to-treat ovarian and endometrial cancers develop, with the goal of finding new treatment options for endometrioid tumors and small cell carcinomas. Learn more about Dr. Wang’s research project.
Yinu Wang, PhD, Northwestern University
Dr. Wang is studying the cancer cells most likely to survive and return after chemotherapy, with the aim of overcoming chemotherapy resistance and reducing recurrence. Learn more about Dr. Wang’s research project.
“These scientists are exploring some of the most promising paths forward in ovarian and endometrial cancer research—from identifying new biomarkers and developing better treatments, to understanding genetic drivers of disease and laying the groundwork for continued progress,” says Audra Moran, OCRA’s President & CEO.
“By investing in their early careers, we’re investing in a future with better outcomes for all patients.”
