At CEDAR, TJ Ekstrom works on creating an early cancer model system for PDAC and identifying gene targets that support cancer development. She utilizes tissue culture to identify molecular and phenotypic changes in early stages of PDAC that lead to metastatic disease. TJ seeks to support the CEDAR community through emphasizing communication, enthusiasm and initiative during project progression. She received her B.S. with departmental honors from the University of Oregon and thesis honors from the Robert D. Clark Honors College.