NextGen Oncology Scholars: Nurturing Tomorrow's Pioneers - In an era where new discoveries in cancer biology can reveal profound insights into disease progression, prevention, and treatment, it is imperative to cultivate the next-generation cadre of researchers, equipped with hands-on experience and communication and collaborative skills necessary for impactful innovations. There is an urgent need for structured programs to nurture emerging cancer researchers early-on, who will pursue careers in cancer biology research, education and treatment. Building upon the need to nurture the next generation of cancer researchers, this proposal introduces the “NextGen Oncology Scholars: Nurturing Tomorrow’s Pioneers” program for undergraduate scholars. This R25 application outlines a dynamic program to engage outstanding undergraduate scholars leading to graduate studies in Cancer Biology research and treatment. The program leverages the robust infrastructure of the Barbara Ann Karmanos Comprehensive Cancer Center and the multidisciplinary graduate training program in Cancer Biology at Wayne State University supported by T32 CA009531, now in its 38th year of support from the National Cancer Institute. A key goal is to recruit and cultivate cohorts of emerging cancer researchers, equipped with original research experiences and professional skills essential for future discoveries in cancer biology in the coming decades. We have developed a holistic training strategy that integrates hands-on laboratory experiences, dynamic didactics, clinical exposure and structured mentoring, building on the success of our Cancer Biology Summer Undergraduate Fellowship Program (SURF), a successful pilot since 2014. Once funded through the R25 mechanism, the NextGen program will replace SURF, expanding its impact on summer research training for undergraduates. An important goal is to provide unique opportunities for cutting-edge research, thus enhancing our decade-long track record of training undergraduate students in cancer biology research each summer. The program will provide undergraduates with mentored laboratory research experiences in cancer biology. We will implement a comprehensive curriculum that combines in-class learning with clinical exposure to enhance understanding of cancer biology, and to broaden awareness of careers in cancer research and clinical care. We will actively recruit and empower a talented student cohort to enrich the scientific workforce in cancer biology research by providing comprehensive support and engagement. Integrating hands-on training and strong mentorship, we strive to elevate cancer research education at our institution, drawing from our outstanding educational infrastructure. Upon completion, our trainees will be well-prepared for advanced studies in graduate or professional school, including medical school, with a spirit of research collaboration and outstanding communication skills needed for professional success. Strengths of our program include a state-of-the-art research infrastructure, personalized career guidance, and access to a highly supportive network of faculty mentors and peers. Importantly, our unique training program will include students in cancer biology research from a range of backgrounds, thus contributing to global advancements in cancer treatment in the coming decades.
