Boise State professor seeks cancer patients for student-led research project

Cancer patients and survivors in the Boise area are being invited to partner with biology students at Boise State University for a service-learning project starting in the spring semester.

Cheryl Jorcyk, a professor in the Department of Biological Sciences, is seeking four or five participants. She is recruiting individuals from the campus community and beyond who want to learn more about their specific diagnosis or are willing to share their experiences with students aiming for careers in medicine or cancer research.

The project involves a structured series of meetings between each student and their assigned client. Jorcyk stated that she will ensure participants understand the scope of the information provided and will review all materials for accuracy. The goal is to help students aspiring to the field while giving patients personalized explanations of their condition.

Students are scheduled to meet with their clients three to four times at public locations over the semester. During the first meeting, the student listens to the client's current understanding of the disease and provides basic biological explanations of that specific cancer type. In the second session, the student presents detailed explanations supported by copies of articles or websites, often using diagrams or analogies to clarify technical aspects of treatment and disease progression.

The final meetings focus on future resources. Students will provide information on prevention, ongoing research, and reliable sources for further reading. They will also share a list of local organizations that offer specialized assistance. Jorcyk is reviewing applications through November 30, 2026, and interested parties can contact her via email or phone to inquire about the program.