The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, announced Wednesday the first of several doctoral students who have completed an advanced degree at The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota.

Seung Ho Shin, a sixth-year doctoral student, defended his dissertation in front of a panel of advisers at the Ray Living Learning Center at the institute.

He is enrolled in the University of Minnesota at Rochester Bioinformatics and Computational Biology Program.

Shin’s dissertation was entitled, “Drug Development and Novel Combination Strategies with Phytochemicals for Precision Medicine in Cancer.” He is advised by Dr. Zigang Dong, professor and executive director of The Hormel Institute.

Shin’s thesis focused on research to enhance the concept of precision medicine, which matches the most accurate and effective treatment to each individual with the potential to manage the specific characteristics of the disease.

In cancer, developing drug candidates and finding effective combination strategies are needed, officials said.

Completing a dissertation is the culmination of several years of research and documentation and defending the work before a thesis committee is the official, final step.

The Hormel Institute’s section leaders, as well as over 95 percent of all scientists working at The Hormel Institute, have earned a doctorate or
medical degree.

The Hormel Institute is committed to supporting and furthering interest and education in the life sciences for students of all ages, with a concentration on advancing students with their higher education goals.

“The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota is an academic research institute, which means that education is a major priority,” said Dr. Ann M. Bode, associate director.  “We pride ourselves on providing educational opportunities at all levels, including the advising and mentoring of doctoral students so that they can become independent researchers and teachers at whatever level they choose.”