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Chapter 5: Machine Learning for Cancer Research

Why should you use artificial intelligence/machine learning (AI/ML) in your cancer research project? By the end of this chapter, you’ll break down this buzzword to better understand what AI and ML techniques are, get tips for where to start, and see how NCI-funded researchers leverage the technology for their projects.

Watch the Video

Watch 5 Tips for Using Machine Learning in Your Research (approx. 6 minutes long).

Test Your Knowledge

Machine learning is the same as artificial intelligence.

A. True
B. False

The correct answer B: False. Artificial intelligence allows a computing machine to solve problems by mimicking the human brain. Machine learning is a subset of this ability, improving on the problem-solving process by allowing a machine the ability to teach itself and learn from its mistakes.

The incorrect answer is A: Although often used interchangeably, they are related but not the same.

Keep Going

Continue to Chapter 6 to learn about big data technologies we think can accelerate your education and research.

Instructor

Ismail Baris Turkbey, M.D., NCI Center for Cancer Research (CCR)
Dr. Turkbey is a senior clinician at NCI’s Molecular Imaging Branch and the director of NCI’s Artificial Intelligence Resource in CCR. His research focuses on artificial intelligence and imaging, biopsy techniques, and focal therapy for prostate cancer.

For questions and feedback about this chapter, email our team at ncicbiit@mail.nih.gov

  • Updated:

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