Cancer Prevention and Control (CAPAC) Research Training Program

Comprehensive Cancer Center/ Univ/Pr, San Juan PR

Investigators

Linked publications & trials

Abstract

Research performed in Puerto Rico (PR) provides an opportunity to advance knowledge of cancer risk, as well as cancer prevention and control strategies relevant to populations across the United States (US). Since 2019, the Cancer Prevention and Control (CAPAC) Research Training Program at the Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences of the University of Puerto Rico Comprehensive Cancer Center has sought to increase the number of master’s-level graduates and other health professionals who pursue doctoral degrees and/or careers in cancer prevention and control research. CAPAC enhances participants’ understanding of the spectrum of cancer prevention and control research while strengthens their research skills, hands-on experience, and ability to work across different research settings. Each summer, participants from different academic backgrounds are selected to participate in a 10- or 15-week hands-on research experience in Puerto Rico. Selection is based on a competitive review process based on their merit (academic performance, letters of recommendation, and research interests). Participants are matched with mentors based on their research interests in basic, clinical/translational, and population-based research. The program includes seminars and workshops designed to strengthen participants’ skills (i.e. successful interview techniques, manuscript writing, and leadership) to increase their interest in pursuing advanced degrees or research careers in cancer prevention and control. Building on the program’s success from 2019 to 2023, the second cycle of the CAPAC Research Training Program aims to: 1) Recruit 25 master’s-level students, health professional students, or recent graduates from these programs, annually to participate in mentored hands-on cancer prevention and control research training in PR; 2) Provide participants with the skills necessary to pursue a doctoral degree and/or a research career in cancer prevention and control; and 3) Conduct process and outcome evaluations related to short-, intermediate-, and long-term program goals. For this second cycle of the CAPAC program, we will expand the annual cohort size from 20 to 25 participants (n=125 total) and incorporate new activities based on lessons learned in the first cycle. These additions aim to enhance collaboration among participants and support the development of professional skills in both clinical and research settings. In addition, among the 25 participants, we will recruit annually 1-2 former CAPAC alumni for second-time experience as peer-to-peer mentors with new program participants. Key outcomes of interest include: (1) successful recruitment of qualified participants, (2) participants and mentor satisfaction, (3) participants who become co-authors in scientific presentations and/or manuscripts, (4) participants who present their research work in scientific and/or academic meetings, and (5) participants who continue doctoral studies or research careers related to cancer prevention and control.