Career Enhancement Program

The Career Enhancement Program (CEP) of the Molecularly Targeted Radiosensitization of Locally Advanced Cancers SPORE at the University of Michigan seeks to identify and foster a trained and engaged pool of investigators focused on studies of molecularly targeted radiosensitization. Translating basic discoveries into clinical practice remains a major challenge to the implementation of many promising funding mechanisms. Accordingly, our program strives to identify and mentor scientists committed to engaging in this challenge. We firmly believe that progress in translational research is dependent on supporting and enhancing early career development of investigators committed to make a difference in cancer patients’ lives. The CEP identifies early career investigators who demonstrate excellent progress towards achieving independence, as well as established investigators interested in transitioning their research program to translation of radiation cancer biology to patient care, and senior investigators with cancer research experience who desire to develop additional expertise in translational science. Examples of the latter are basic science investigators who plan to test the translation of their studies first in pre-clinical testing followed by clinical trials. Similarly, clinicians conducting clinical trials who plan to develop novel approaches grounded in the laboratory but who do not have basic science expertise or a wet lab in which to conduct necessary preclinical and correlative studies are also considered. SPORE leadership and investigators will encourage best practices to ensure successful mentorship and career development of participants. Mentoring teams will include experienced mentors who will also be provided with formal training in both mentorship and sponsorship. The program will articulate clear expectations and goals for career development and mentoring relationships. It will support participants’ professional development in areas like clinical trial design and grant writing; it will also offer real-world opportunities for honing presentation and networking skills in the SPORE annual retreats. The CEP curriculum will target skills in areas like negotiation, work-life integration, and leadership development, encouraging peer mentorship in addition to the other forms of mentorship established in the program. Impact will be carefully measured and evaluated.