Cancer Aging and Metabolism research experience Program (CAMP) - The Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope (COH) is a world-class cancer research institution and cancer hospital with a mission of turning science into practical benefit through exquisite care, innovative research, and vital education focused on eliminating cancer and diabetes. Increases in cancer incidence and rising treatment costs highlight a need to advance cancer research through the growth of a well-trained workforce. We propose an institution-wide, 10-week research experience for undergraduates focused on cancer, aging, and metabolism, called the Cancer Aging and Metabolism research experience Program (CAMP). The CAMP R25 is committed to training future scientific leaders who have the skills to develop novel technologies and translate them into the clinic. CAMP will provide a focused, mentored research experience by matching undergraduate trainees (CAMPers) with mentor-researchers from three thematic areas: Cancer Aging, Cancer Metabolism, and Clinical Research. Each summer, CAMP will enable 25 CAMPers, selected via local and nationwide searches, to participate in research that spans the arc of cancer research, from basic to bedside. CAMPers will select from among 30 experienced COH Mentors who have a track record of mentoring students with varied interests and backgrounds. Principles of responsible conduct of research and rigor and reproducibility will be taught by faculty. Hands-on laboratory research and auxiliary activities will be enhanced by journal clubs, distinguished speaker seminars, and weekly CAMPer research presentations, as well as an end-of-summer poster session. To expand our educational impact and enhance the pipeline of future researchers, CAMP will also pilot a school-year extension program, designed to support promising local undergraduates with sustained mentorship and research engagement beyond the summer. At the end of each summer, five CAMPers will be competitively selected based on performance and interest to participate in a school-year extension, continuing research under their mentors for approximately nine months. This year-round engagement, fully supported by the R25, is designed to sustain mentorship, enhance skill development, and strengthen retention of promising students in cancer research pathways. The administrative structure of CAMP includes a highly experienced Program Director, Associate Director, and a team of faculty members serving on specialized committees in Recruitment and Admissions, Curriculum Development, Evaluation, and Mentor Training. Oversight will be provided by Internal and External Advisory Committees to ensure quality, equity, and accountability throughout the program. CAMP is grounded in City of Hope’s long-standing commitment to education and its successful track record in hosting summer programs that have launched the careers of countless trainees. This R25 proposal is uniquely positioned to fill a critical federal funding gap in undergraduate cancer research training and will help shape the next generation of researchers dedicated to improving outcomes for patients with cancer.
