"Following an extensive national search, it became apparent that Dr. Beckerle has the best combination of expertise, leadership skills, national recognition and vision to lead the institute," A.

Lorris Betz, senior vice president for health sciences and executive dean of the U.'s medical school, said in a statement Wednesday.

According to the announcement Beckerle joined the U. faculty in 1986 and is a professor of biology and adjunct professor of oncological sciences. Her research at HCI is focused on how cells move and stick together, critical concepts in understanding how cancer spreads through the body.

Beckerle is the president of the 11,000-member American Society of Cell Biology. In 2001, she was honored with the Utah Governors Award for Science and Technology.

Beckerle replaces Randall Burt, who has served as HCI's interim director since June 2005. She is HCI's first female director and one of only a handful of women to lead National Cancer Institute-designated centers nationwide.