Texas 4000 Presents Gift at 2011 Annual Welcome Gathering

Two researchers, Professor Aaron Baker and Professor Mia Markey, were awarded $25,000 each.

Professor Markey will study methods to help physicians determine whether or not brain cancer has recurred within patients. Her project is in partnership with NeuroTexas Institute of St. David’s Healthcare and her collaborators include Dr. Matthew Cowperthwaite and Dr. Mark Burnett. Their approach will be to develop new computer algorithms to help physicians better understand brain MRI images, and will lead to detection of brain tumor recurrences at earlier stages in order to improve patient quality of life and potentially survival.

The aim of Professor Aaron Baker’s work is to develop an innovative technology that will allow drugs to better prevent cancer from spreading.

Texas 4000 will also give $40,000 to the Department of Biomedical Engineering to establish an endowment for further cancer-related research.

About Texas 4000

Texas 4000 is an annual charity bike ride beginning in Austin and ending in Anchorage, Alaska. Cyclists raise money to participate in the ride that ultimately supports cancer research. Texas 4000 is a not-for-profit organization founded by BME alumnus Chris Condit, who now serves on the group’s board of directors.