Steve Oghumu, PhD, selected for Provost's Midcareer Scholars: Scarlet and Gray Associate Professor Program

The Ohio State University Office of Faculty Affairs selected Steve Oghumu, PhD, for the Provost’s Midcareer Scholars: Scarlet and Gray Associate Professor Program, based on his scholarly, teaching and serving excellence in academic medicine. He is an innovative scientist, a dedicated educator and a leader whose work advances cancer prevention, immuno-oncology and student success across our campus.  

His research program aims to further medical professionals’ understanding of genetic and immunological factors underlying the etiology and pathogenesis of human disease and focuses on two primary disease areas: oral carcinogenesis and substance use disorder.  

Dr. Oghumu uses innovative mouse models to: 

1. Investigate the cellular, molecular and immunological mechanisms of oral carcinogenesis and advance the development and application of compounds for oral cancer chemoprevention and treatment.  
2. Develop and apply uniquely novel mouse models to determine the contribution of X-chromosome inactivation to sex differences in susceptibility to neoplastic and neurologic disorders. 

Dr. Oghumu’s research program integrates immunology, cancer biology and metabolism to improve prevention and treatment strategies for head and neck cancers and related diseases. His funding portfolio includes a National Institutes of Health (NIH) Director’s Pioneer Award for innovative research on sex differences in addiction and an NIH R01 grant on the oral glucocorticoid system in carcinogenesis. These awards reflect sustained innovation and competitive impact at the national level. 

During his three-year appointment, Dr. Oghumu will receive support to advance his scholarship, and will participate in professional development activities with the other chosen scholars.