Cancer Prevention and Control Research Training and Career Development Program

University Of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston, Houston TX

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Abstract

The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth) School of Public Health seeks its sixth renewal of our highly successful Cancer Control Research Training and Career Development Program for doctoral students and postdoctoral trainees. The long-term goal is to reduce cancer morbidity and mortality and improve cancer outcomes. The objective is to increase the number of outstanding cancer control scientists with cutting-edge research and analytic skills. The training program is designed to prepare cancer prevention and control researchers to fill evidence gaps related to factors influencing cancer control outcomes; develop and evaluate cancer control multilevel interventions (MLIs); and design and test strategies to increase the adoption, implementation, sustainment, and scale up of effective interventions in community and health care settings. The program builds on 29 years of success in preparing independent, skilled, and principled cancer control scientists. It uses innovative instruction, mentored experiences, and participatory methods to prepare fellows to conduct pragmatic, actionable research that advances cancer prevention and control. Outstanding cancer control researchers participating as mentors and co-mentors have established community and healthcare research partnerships across the state, the U.S. and globally. Their research programs are well supported by varied funders offering many opportunities for trainees. Key areas of the program include: (1) training on the use of large databases such as healthcare claims, EHRs, surveys, and cancer registry data to identify multilevel cancer-related determinants; 2) training on innovative research design and analytic skills (e.g., geo-spatial analysis, systems science, Bayesian approaches, pragmatic trial designs) to address the multilevel, multidimensional, factors influencing cancer; 3) the development and evaluation of MLIs using based participatory research and systematic planning; and 4) training on adaptation of cancer control interventions, and the design and testing of implementation strategies. By the end of the current cycle, 68 fellows will have completed training, with 5 continuing their training in the next cycle. In this renewal, the training program will appoint 15 new trainees, supporting approximately 4 predoctoral and 4 postdoctoral positions annually. Building on a strong track record, the program will continue to recruit, retain, and train pre- and postdoctoral fellows committed to advancing cancer control research.