Cancer Research Training and Education Coordination (CRTEC)

Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia PA

Investigators

Linked publications, trials & patents

Abstract

ABSTRACT: CANCER RESEARCH TRAINING AND EDUCATION COORDINATION The overall goal of the Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center (SKCCC) Cancer Research Training and Education Coordination (CRTEC) Office is to create an integrated and innovative pipeline of activities to inspire and develop the next generation of cancer researchers and provide workforce career training and mentorship across the research spectrum. Our commitment to excellence in training and education is central to the SKCCC scientific mission, and directly aligned with our goal to serve as a leading NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center in region that has persistently high cancer burdens. SKCCC believes that investment of effort and resources into our trainees perpetuates a virtuous cycle wherein the research and clinical missions of our Cancer Center benefit proportionally to the growth and productivity of our trainees. Trainees are authors on >85% of SKCCC publications and are essential to research in laboratories and population science research teams. They assist in the implementation of clinical trials, engage in community outreach, and are active citizens in our communities of learning. The Associate Director (AD) for Training and Education, Nicole Simone, MD, leads CRTEC activities with the support of SKCCC-funded education coordinators. Innovative programmatic activities are offered to high school and undergraduate students, pre- and post-doctoral trainees, researchers, clinicians, and staff. Commensurate with expectations from an NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center and in alignment with our cancer research career enhancement principles, SKCCC has developed and incorporated mechanisms at multiple levels to assist early-career investigators with career development, including four T32 training grants. Development of a robust cancer research career development training pipeline, mentored development of junior faculty, and ongoing education and training of cancer researchers across the research spectrum is a fundamental goal of SKCCC and our consortium partners. In addition to the development of innovative and impactful new training and educational initiatives, CRTEC coordinates existing training and career development activities at Thomas Jefferson University and Drexel University, including in the preparation of grant applications at all levels. The specific aims for the CRTEC include: (1) Develop additional platforms for innovative cancer-focused training of pre- and post-doctoral fellows, clinical research fellows, and junior faculty. (2) Enhance mechanisms to promote interdisciplinary training and develop core competencies in translational research. (3) Integrate new avenues of cancer research training into the SKCC training environment. (4) Integrate CRTEC activities with community outreach and engagement (COE).