Antonina Mitrofanova, an associate professor in the Department of Health Informatics and associate dean for research at Rutgers School of Health Professions, has been honored with the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers (PECASE). This award is the highest recognition given by the U.S. government to early-career scientists and engineers. Nearly 400 researchers received this prestigious award from President Joe Biden this year.
Mitrofanova’s accolade comes from the National Institutes of Health for her work on developing mathematical and computational algorithms that address significant biological and clinical problems. “This award is a tremendous honor,” said Mitrofanova, who is also a research member of the Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey. She added that it represents her ‘American Dream’ after immigrating from Ukraine to pursue computer science instead of medicine.
She credited the supportive environment at Rutgers for her success, stating, “This award belongs to all of us.” As a leader in biomedical informatics, Mitrofanova focuses on identifying molecular biomarkers to predict cancer treatment responses. Her lab employs advanced mathematical models to analyze complex molecular interactions.
“This approach provides deeper insights into disease progression,” she explained. Last year, her study published in Nature Communications introduced methods to predict patient responses to prostate cancer drugs like enzalutamide (Xtandi) and proposed strategies to extend their effectiveness.
Brian Strom, chancellor of Rutgers Health, praised Mitrofanova: “Her pioneering work in computational algorithms and biomedical informatics is not only transforming cancer treatment but also inspiring future scientists.” Her lab continues expanding its research into gaps in cancer biology by exploring non-coding genome roles in treatment response.
“We hope our work will guide the best therapeutic course for patients before they begin treatment,” Mitrofanova stated. Jeffrey J. DiGiovanni, dean of Rutgers School of Health Professions, highlighted her impact: “Dr. Mitrofanova’s research…has had a profound impact in the medical field.”
The PECASE was established by President Bill Clinton in 1996 to recognize scientists with exceptional potential early in their careers and highlights innovative developments crucial for science and technology’s future role in society.
