Postdoctoral Training Grant for MDs in Surgical Oncology Research

The number of physicians trained to perform surgical oncology research is inadequate when considering that most patients with solid tumors undergo surgery as part of their clinical management. Improving the care of these patients is in the interests of the NCI. It is critical that more surgeons are involved in patient-oriented research and that other physicians be trained in oncology research related to the surgical management of cancer patients. The objectives of this application are 1) To increase the number of well-trained surgeons and affiliated physicians who perform patient-oriented cancer research, 2) To enhance the depth of research training of surgeons by offering advanced degrees during their research training. Trainees will be enrolled in one of two research tracks: Translational Laboratory Science (TLS), Clinical Science in Oncology (CSO). These tracks will be structured and will include associated curriculum, and appropriate mentors. However, there will be flexibility to include training in other research areas and in other research-related skills, which will augment the trainees’ educational experiences. Surgical residents with a minimum of two years of clinical training will be admitted to the program, and other non-surgical, yet oncologically related MD/DO trainees may be admitted but will fill no more than 25% of the trainee positions. There will be a total of six trainees at any given time. Trainees will enter a dedicated, 2-3 year training period that will include a core research project related to solid tumor oncology, plus coursework selected to match their research track, with the option for a Master’s degree in Clinical Research or PhD. Strong emphasis will be placed on learning skills required for life-long careers in research combined with academic clinical practice. These will include research ethics, grant writing, research design, data analysis, budgeting, manuscript writing, and stress management. By this approach, a cohort of young, well-trained surgeons and associated physicians will be developed who will have the tools to perform high quality, ethical, translational and clinical research specifically centered on human tumor oncology.