Jo Lynne Rokita, PhD
- Director, Brain Tumor Institute Bioinformatics Core
- Data Science Faculty
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- PhD, Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA
- MS, Forensic Science, Arcadia University, Glenside, PA
- BS, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA
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Jo Lynne Rokita, PhD, is a principal investigator of the Rokita Lab, housed within the Brain Tumor Institute (BTI) and the Center for Cancer and Immunology Research (CCIR) at Children's National Hospital, which is dedicated to understanding the genetic, molecular, and cellular mechanisms underlying pediatric brain tumors. With a focus on improving outcomes for children, the lab integrates cutting-edge multi-omics technologies—such as genomics, transcriptomics, and proteomics—to unravel the complexities of tumor biology. Additionally, the lab investigates how social determinants of health, genetic ancestry, and other disparities influence cancer incidence, treatment responses, and patient outcomes. Through its research, the Rokita Lab aims to bridge gaps in understanding, address inequities, and ultimately improve survival and quality of life for children with brain tumors. This research drives the development of precision medicine approaches that aim to tailor treatments to the unique characteristics of each patient's cancer.
In addition to leading her lab, Dr. Rokita serves as the Director of the BTI Bioinformatics Core, which provides essential computational expertise to principal investigators across departments. This core supports a wide range of brain tumor research projects, including preclinical studies and clinical trials, ensuring the effective analysis of complex data and advancing discoveries that directly impact patient care.
Central to both the missions of her lab and the BTI Bioinformatics mission is a commitment to open science, reproducibility, and collaboration. By sharing data, tools, and methodologies with the global research community, the Rokita Lab seeks to accelerate discoveries and foster innovation in pediatric oncology. The Rokita Lab is committed to mentoring the next generation of scientists and fostering an inclusive and collaborative environment dedicated in the fight against pediatric brain cancers.