
Georgetown Scientific Research Journal GSR Journal
Beth N. Peshkin, M.S., is a Professor of Oncology in the Cancer Prevention and Control Program, Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Education Director of the Jess and Mildred Fisher Center for Hereditary, and Associate Faculty, Pellegrino Center for Clinical Bioethics. She received her education at the University of Maryland College Park (BS, Microbiology), University of Wisconsin-Madison (MS, Medical Genetics), Certificate in Bioethics and Health Policy from Loyola University (Chicago).
Involvement in Research and Current Endeavors:
Professor Beth N. Peshkin, M.S., is an esteemed member at Georgetown, holding a pivotal role as a co-investigator in hereditary cancer research. Her team’s work has been groundbreaking in several areas:
A notable aspect of Professor Peshkin’s career is her ability to evolve with technology. Starting from more straightforward research questions decades ago, she has adeptly incorporated advanced technology to improve genetic counseling access and effectiveness.
Inspiration:
She credits much of her inspiration to her father, describing him as a supportive influence during her early years. A pivotal moment in her career was attending a conference on neurofibromatosis, which introduced her to the field of genetic counseling. She also speaks highly of her time with Dr. Caryn Lerman at Georgetown, who mentored her in the psychosocial aspects of cancer genetic counseling and testing and doing research. This experience, along with her Georgetown colleagues’ collaborative and dedicated spirit, particularly clinician-scientists, has continually inspired her. Professor Peshkin values the blend of clinical experience with research, which is essential to her career growth.
Reflection:
Professor Peshkin reflects on her career with no regrets, valuing her growth and professional evolution at Georgetown. Her role extends beyond research; she is passionate about teaching and developing courses in genetics, ethics, policy, and disability for undergraduate and graduate students. Her teaching is enriched by her clinical and research experiences, allowing her to guide students in a constantly evolving field. She fondly notes the joy she derives from teaching, particularly in the small, community-oriented classes she leads in which she can witness her students’ growth throughout the semester.
Advice for Students:
Professor Peshkin advises students to use their time in college to learn how to think critically; she says, “It’s not about ‘what’ to think-- it’s ‘how’ to think.” Emphasizing the importance of listening, being open-minded, and being comfortable with uncertainty, she encourages students to embrace the grey areas and understand that sometimes questions are as important as the answers. She advises students that it's perfectly acceptable to say, "I don't know." This humble acknowledgment is a powerful mindset so that pursuing knowledge becomes a continuous, open-ended journey. This approach is particularly relevant in fields like genetics and medical research, where new discoveries constantly reshape what is known and unknown.