Analisa DiFeo, Ph.D.

Dr. DiFeo is a Professor of Pathology and Obstetrics and Gynecology with more than 17 years of experience in gynecological cancer and miRNA research. Her translational research program has made significant contributions to the field through the development of clinically relevant models, the identification of key genetic drivers, and the advancement of novel therapeutic strategies for women’s cancers. She has led and organized several translational research initiatives in New York, Cleveland, and Michigan, and currently serves as Director of the Michigan Ovarian Cancer Science and Innovation Consortium (MOSAIC), where she brings together physicians, scientists, and patient advocates across the state to advance ovarian cancer research and care. Her patient-centered approach to translational oncology and therapeutic development has inspired a generation of researchers and continues to shape the future of women’s cancer research. The work conducted in the DiFeo laboratory spans the full continuum of translational science, beginning with comprehensive analyses of patient samples and extending to functional studies of genetic drivers involved in gynecological cancer progression. The overarching goal of her research is to develop innovative therapeutic strategies that improve survival outcomes for ovarian cancer patients.

Dr. DiFeo’s contributions have been recognized through numerous awards and an extensive publication record. Since 2006, her laboratory has maintained continuous funding from federal agencies, foundations, and industry partners, including the NIH, Department of Defense, Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance, Mary Kay Foundation, and Eli Lilly through the Lilly Research Award. She has published more than 90 peer-reviewed articles, including a study recognized as the AACR Outstanding Journal Article in 2025.

In addition to her research accomplishments, Dr. DiFeo serves on numerous grant review panels, editorial boards, and scientific advisory committees. Her leadership roles have included serving as a past Charter Member of the Developmental Therapeutics Study Section at the NCI, Co-Chair of the American Cancer Society Mission Boost Grant Review Committee, and ad hoc reviewer for multiple Department of Defense and NCI ovarian cancer research programs. She also serves on the Editorial Boards of Gynecologic Oncology and Cancers (MDPI) and on the Scientific Advisory Board of Tina’s Wish.

At the University of Michigan, Dr. DiFeo has contributed extensively through service on more than 15 institutional committees, including the Senate Assembly, Medical Affairs Committee, Rogel Cancer Center Training, Education, and Career Development (TrEC) Internal Advisory Council, Chair of the Cancer Biology Admissions Committee and the Cancer Biology Graduate Program Steering Committee.

Dr. DiFeo is also a deeply committed mentor and educator. She serves as Associate Director of the Cancer Biology Graduate Program and Co-Director of the Tumor Microenvironment Training Program. She has contributed to more than 20 thesis committees, including 15 as Chair, and has mentored numerous graduate students and postdoctoral fellows who have gone on to receive NIH training grants and career development awards.