The SLHS Cancer Research Society (CRS) attended the American Association of Cancer Research (AACR) Annual Meeting on April 21, 2026, learning from both seasoned professionals and student symposiums about cancer biology and recent technological innovations. The event, which took place in San Diego, Calif., was attended by CRS president Jason Fang and member Uichan Ahn.
“It was very, very eye opening,” Fang said. “Cancer research, especially in high school, is not as common as smoking awareness or drunk driving. Seeing how many students were at the conference itself was inspiring and that all truly [wanted] me to make an even bigger change within our school.”
At the conference, Fang and Ahn attended speaker sessions, explored an expo featuring leading medical organizations and pharmaceutical companies, and observed student research presentations. Institutions such as the National Institutes of Health (NIH), M.D. Anderson Cancer Center and AstraZeneca showcased new technologies and ongoing research.
“You get to immerse yourself in their technologies,” Ahn said. “Being around so many experts really broadened my understanding of the field.”
One of the most impactful moments for the students was hearing from cholangiocarcinoma survivor and advocate Melinda Bachini. Diagnosed in 2009 and initially given only months to live, Bachini is now 13 years treatment-free after enrolling in a clinical trial at the NIH.
“She reminds us why cancer research is so important,” Fang said. “Her story highlights the importance of family, caregivers and the resilience patients need to fight cancer.”
Fang’s passion for cancer research stems from personal experience. At only thirteen years old, Fang saw his grandfather diagnosed with stage-four cancer.
“As the time passed and as I saw him essentially get worse, it really made me curious why treatments that work for other people did not work on him,” Fang said. “That’s what really led me into cancer research.”
Looking ahead, CRS plans to expand its research efforts. The club aims to assemble a team of students to present a public health research project at the 2027 AACR meeting focusing on examining disparities in cancer education and awareness.
“We feel honored and excited to present our research next year,” Fang said. “By studying gaps in cancer education, we hope to identify areas we can improve for future generations.”
Participation in the research team will be competitive. CRS plans to open applications to members with a strong interest in medicine, with selected students working under the guidance of a professional mentor. Fang, who currently conducts research with Professor Tyler Beyett of Emory University’s School of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, emphasized the importance of mentorship in student-initiated research.
“Having guidance from experienced researchers is crucial,” Fang said. “It helps ensure that our work is meaningful and contributes to the field.”
As cancer research continues to evolve rapidly, both Fang and Ahn see opportunities for students to contribute early.
“Cancer research is expanding at a very rapid rate,” Fang said. “We’re the next generation of doctors and researchers, and even in high school, we can start making an impact.”
