Puerto Rico Cancer Research Meeting - PROJECT SUMMARY
The Puerto Rico Cancer Research Meeting (PRCRM), hosted by Universidad Central del Caribe – School of
Medicine (UCC-SOM), aims to bridge the gap in cancer research by addressing challenges faced by local
scientists and students due to geographical limitations. As the second leading cause of death in Puerto Rico,
combating cancer mortality rates becomes crucial. Limited access to resources restricts opportunities for
students and researchers to attend national scientific meetings. This one-day annual conference is an essential
platform that facilitates cross-disciplinary exchanges among underrepresented investigators, trainees, patient
advocates, and cancer survivors. It comprises diverse sessions including plenary lectures by distinguished
researchers, a cancer/survivor advocacy talk, trainees’ short talks sessions, poster and networking sessions, as
well as a UCC graduate program information session. With a primary emphasis on promoting diversity and
inclusion, this meeting targets underrepresented scientists and students from diverse backgrounds. Former
attendees of past PRCRM editions are now contributing as postdoctoral fellows, research trainees, or residents
of esteemed local and national institutions. The meeting's specific aims are:
1) To promote the dissemination of basic science and latest clinical research in cancer prevention, therapy
resistance, innovative treatments, metastasis and health disparities to audiences in Puerto Rico.
2) To empower underrepresented trainees in the biomedical workforce from Puerto Rico and participating
partner institutions by providing a pioneering scientific forum, and giving them a significant national venue
to share their research work.
3) To strengthen networking and collaborative efforts between local and national institutions, fostering a
diverse and inclusive teamworking environment for trainees, faculty, and cancer survivors.
Anticipated outcomes of the PRCRM include the stimulation of new research collaborations, the development of
grant proposals, trainee advanced career opportunities and significant advancements in cancer research. This
initiative has the potential to significantly increase the diversity in the biomedical workforce and serve as a model
for other countries with the same challenges.
