John R. Hawse, IV

John R. Hawse, IV, Ph.D., is a Professor of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at Mayo Clinic, with a joint appointment in the Department of Cancer Biology. He leads the Molecular Analysis of Human Diseases Laboratory, focusing on sex hormone signaling, estrogen receptor biology, and therapeutic targets in breast and ovarian cancers. His research employs CRISPR genome editing, functional omics, and clinical trials, addressing cancer drug resistance and novel treatment strategies.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, West Virginia University
• Postdoctoral Fellowship at Mayo Clinic
• Certificate in Clinical and Translational Science, Mayo Clinic

Research Interests: Dr. Hawse’s work centers on developing therapies like endoxifen for ERα+ breast cancer, exploring estrogen receptor beta (ERβ) in triple-negative breast cancer, and investigating CDK4/6 inhibitor resistance. His lab also studies ovarian cancer treatments, including lestaurtinib and CTPS1-targeting compounds in clinical trials.

Grants & Funding: Supported by NIH, Department of Defense, Breast Cancer Research Foundation, and others. His lab has initiated five early-phase clinical trials, translating basic discoveries into clinical applications.

Labs & Affiliations:

• Molecular Analysis of Human Diseases Laboratory
• Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center
• Mayo Clinic Breast and Ovarian Cancer SPORE programs