Developmental Research Program

Developmental Research Program - Abstract The UNC Breast Cancer SPORE Developmental Research Program (DRP) has promoted novel breast cancer research across the population, translational, and clinical arenas since 1992. This highly successful Program includes mechanisms for stimulating grant applications, rigorously evaluating proposals, selecting projects with advocate input, and monitoring progress. Application mechanisms include both regular competitive awards as well as rapidly emerging opportunities. Evaluation and selection processes include a well-established, independent scientific peer review that includes patient advocates. The SPORE Multi-PIs Perou and Carey, with input from the Executive Committee, make final decisions regarding selection and budget. We expanded formal solicitation to other UNC system universities to continue to grow the faculty with the most innovative ideas to improve breast cancer prevention, early detection, therapy and survivorship care. The program has increased in the past decade with increased institutional commitment to expanded faculty recruitment. The process will feature a robust twice-yearly solicitation for competitive DRP awards across UNC and our sister UNC System universities. UNC Lineberger’s commitment to the Breast SPORE goes beyond this, with the Multi-PIs and Cancer Center investing directly in major programs (e.g., CBCS Phase 4), infrastructures (tripling of the size of the cellular therapy GMP facility) and technology (a NovaSeq X and CosMx purchase). The Multi-PIs co-conceptualize the emerging investments with the needs of both innovative science and the CEP recruits in mind.