Author Profile

LaToyia P. Downs, PhD

Scientific Writer

LaToyia P. Downs, PhD, is a Scientific Writer in the Strategic Communication, Education and Outreach Department at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital

Stories by LaToyia P. Downs

St. Jude On

The hidden inheritance behind cancer risk and development

LaToyia P. Downs, PhD

Discover how St. Jude researchers are advancing our understanding of inherited genetic risk factors to improve cancer detection, prevention and personalized treatment.

Investigator Insights

5 Questions for Mengzhao (Lucy) Xue, PhD

Mengzhao (Lucy) Xue and LaToyia P. Downs, PhD

Explore the work and achievements of Mengzhao (Lucy) Xue, PhD, as she shares her research journey and what receiving the 2026 Burroughs Wellcome Fund Career Award means for her career path.

Outreach

Closing the workforce readiness gap in data science

LaToyia P. Downs, PhD

See how St. Jude is bridging the gap between classroom learning and real-world workforce demands.

Outreach

The ripple effect of pediatric oncology training programs shows worldwide impact

LaToyia P. Downs, PhD

See how St. Jude Global is creating a ripple effect that strengthens pediatric cancer care worldwide.

Clinical

St. Jude hospitalists improve processes for better patient care

LaToyia P. Downs, PhD

Learn how St. Jude hospitalists ensure consistent, high-quality care for patients around the clock.

Outreach

Connecting Memphis classrooms to data science careers

LaToyia P. Downs, PhD

Learn how St. Jude is preparing students for future careers in data science.

Investigator Insights

5 Questions for Kim Nichols, MD

LaToyia P. Downs, PhD and Kim E. Nichols, MD

Meet Kim Nichols, MD, and learn about her work in cancer predisposition research.

Investigator Insights

5 Questions for Xin-yan Chen, PhD

LaToyia P. Downs, PhD and Xin-yan Chen

Meet postdoctoral researcher Xin-yan Chen, PhD, Department of Tumor Cell Biology, and learn about her research.  

Investigator Insights

5 Questions for Jingjing Chen, PhD

LaToyia P. Downs, PhD and Jingjing Chen

Meet postdoctoral researcher Jingjing Chen, PhD, Department of Hematology, and learn about her research.

Outreach

Learning today to become the mentors of tomorrow

LaToyia P. Downs, PhD

Learn more about how mentorship at St. Jude prepares future leaders in research and medicine.