Cancer Research Training & Education Coordination (CRTEC)

University Of Arizona, Tucson AZ

Investigators

Linked publications, trials & patents

Abstract

CANCER RESEARCH TRAINING & EDUCATION COORDINATION: ABSTRACT Training the next generation of cancer researchers and health professionals has been a central mission of the University of Arizona Cancer Center (UACC) since its founding in 1976. UACC’s Office of Cancer Research Training & Education Coordination (CRTEC) is led by the Associate Director of CRTEC, Margaret Briehl, PhD, and Assistant Director of Clinical Training and Education, Aaron Scott, MD. They are assisted by three full-time staff members, including an Operations Manager, a Science Educator, and a Grant Writer. A CRTEC Council comprised of 12 leaders of training and education programs provides oversight of CRTEC efforts. CRTEC’s vision is to promote the development of the next generation of cancer researchers across a pipeline of learners by engaging individuals from elementary to high-school (K-12) through junior to mid-career level faculty and health professionals. This vision is realized through promotion of high-impact training that supports team science approaches to prevent and cure cancer. Developing a diverse workforce of cancer researchers and health professionals to serve UACC’s unique Catchment Area is a high priority for CRTEC. During the current reporting period, UACC Members have led eight T32s, three R25s, and one U54 training grant that provide cancer-focused research opportunities. The Center’s two newest training programs are funded through R25 awards with a focus on building the research skills of underrepresented minority (URM) trainees at the undergraduate, post-baccalaureate, and graduate-level. During the current funding period, 178 mentors (165 UACC Members) have mentored 1,198 trainees through UACC-led and other institutional training programs. Collectively, these programs engage trainees from high school through postdoctoral fellowships. Thirty-seven percent of UACC trainees are URM. UACC trainees who have entered the workforce are contributing to the cancer field through careers in academia, industry, government, publishing, and working as health professionals caring for cancer patients. CRTEC’s concerted efforts are accomplished through three Specific Aims: (1) coordinate and develop cancer-focused training and education activities across the continuum of trainees, (2) facilitate and expand cancer-focused professional development activities, and (3) track and evaluate the impact of UACC’s cancer research training and education activities. CRTEC efforts over the next 5 years are expected to lead to a substantially more integrated learning pipeline, particularly among URMs, that promotes transdisciplinary, translational research and professional careers in the cancer field.