Administrative Core

University Of Iowa, Iowa City IA

Investigators

Abstract

The overall goal of the Iowa Neuroendocrine Tumor (NET) SPORE Administrative Core is to support innovative, rigorous research in NETs and facilitate its translation into improved diagnostic and therapeutic options for patients with these rare malignancies. The Administrative Core will provide the main organizational structure and oversight of all SPORE activities and will be co-directed by the SPORE Co-PIs, Drs. Dawn Quelle, Jim Howe, and Yusuf Menda. The co-directors will leverage their complementary expertise in basic, translational, and clinical NET research and trials to oversee SPORE organization, collaboration, communication, and use of resources by the major research Projects, Cores, and developmental projects (Developmental Research Program [DRP] and Career Enhancement Program [CEP]). Administrative Core co-directors will work together with administration staff to ensure proper fiscal management of the SPORE and coordinate productive engagement of patient advocates and SPORE committees including the Executive Committee, External Advisory Committee, and Internal Advisory Committee. To support the efficient operation of the NET SPORE, the Administrative Core will 1) provide leadership, organizational support, and financial management to SPORE co-directors and investigators; 2) organize monthly research conferences, quarterly Executive Committee meetings, and annual scientific retreats to promote the exchange of ideas, assess ongoing progress, and review new projects to support the most rigorous research; 3) provide oversight of SPORE Cores to ensure continual quality improvement in services for investigators; 4) coordinate and lead meetings with External / Internal Advisory Committees to set SPORE strategic goals; 5) provide support that facilitates data sharing and information transfer to the scientific community and public; 6) engage patient advocates in SPORE activities; 7) foster NET investigator development; and 8) communicate with the NCI. Outcomes will include 1) excellent communication between investigators, Core directors, advisors and NCI that nurtures productive horizontal and vertical collaborations; 2) support for travel and publication charges, leaving more resources for projects and cores to conduct proposed science; 3) direct communication between NET experts and patient advocates to enhance their awareness of and input into SPORE activities; and 4) senior investigator mentoring of new and/or junior NET investigators. Administrative Core significance is enabling investigators to make the best use of taxpayer money to conduct translational research that will yield new and improved methods to diagnose, treat, and ultimately prevent NETs.