Department of Oncology

Ms Peshkin has been the Senior Genetic Counselor in the Cancer Control Program at Lombardi for over 14 years, and has counseled more than 700 individuals at-risk for hereditary cancer. She is a Research Associate Professor of Oncology. She is a co-investigator on several federally funded grants and has published extensively in the field of cancer genetic counseling and testing, and medical decision-making among clinicians and patients. She is nationally recognized for her clinical expertise as well as her research experience. Current research is focusing on the effectiveness and impact of telephone genetic counseling; uptake and outcomes of genetic counseling in newly diagnosed breast cancer patients; educational and support needs of mothers and adolescent daughters about hereditary breast cancer; physician knowledge and educational needs related to genomic and genetic testing; and personalized medicine. Ms. Peshkin has lectured frequently to students, professionals, and lay audiences. She was a contributor to the American Society of Clinical Oncology's updated Cancer Genetics Curriculum for health professionals. In 2002, she developed a graduate course, TBIO 558, Contemporary Issues in Genetics and Society, which addresses genetics and ethical issues, and attracts public policy and basic science students. The course is offered in the Spring semesters. In 2007, Ms. Peshkin became the Education Director for the newly endowed Jess and Mildred Fisher Center for Familial Cancer Research.