# Cancer Research Training Program: From Molecular Mechanisms to Therapeutic Strategies

> **NIH NIH T32** · UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA · 2024 · $424,585

## Abstract

ABSTRACT
The Cancer Research Training Program (CRTP) at the University of Virginia brings together faculty and
trainees with a common interest in cancer biology to participate in an integrated program of cancer research,
education, and discovery. The overall objective of the CRTP is to empower the next generation of cancer
researchers with the tools to become future leaders in the quest to understand oncological processes and
improve patient outcomes. We accomplish these goals through intensive cancer research training coupled with
academic and professional development activities. Together, these provide the trainees with (1) a broad-based
knowledge of fundamental principles in cancer biology; (2) the ability to define and solve vital research
questions using the most current approaches and techniques in the constantly changing landscape of
biomedical research; and (3) the skills to partner with basic scientists, translational researchers, clinical
trialists, clinicians, and cancer patients/survivors to promote discovery and improved outcomes. This renewal
application incorporates a new leadership structure prompted by the addition of Dr. Andrew Dudley as part of a
multi-PI team with the current PI, Dr. Amy Bouton. We request support for 8 predoctoral trainees who will
participate in longitudinal training that includes laboratory research, formal course work, programmatic
activities, exposure to clinical/translational aspects of cancer, programming in professional/career
development, and community outreach opportunities. The 42 CRTP faculty mentors provide a robust and fully
integrated platform through which the program delivers this training. Most importantly, the CRTP takes
advantage of the robust cancer research community provided by the NCI-designated UVA Cancer Center. This
affords the trainees an opportunity to apply their own experiences in basic cancer research to the need for
improved diagnosis and treatments in cancer care. The CRTP has experienced much success over its almost
44-year history. As we move into the next funding period, we challenge ourselves to meet the changing
landscape of cancer research through constant assessment and evolution of the program. In this regard, we
have incorporated a number of new initiatives designed to reinforce community-building, provide new
opportunities for applied learning and professional development, and promote dialogues between trainees and
cancer patients/survivors. This renewal application also includes important new enhancements focused on
training in rigor and reproducibility, mentor training, and the establishment of an Advisory Committee for
Diversity & Inclusion. The full array of CRTP activities, together with a dedicated faculty, talented cadre of
trainees, and vibrant cancer research community, all contribute to producing CRTP alumni who are well-
positioned to become lifelong learners and future leaders in the continually evolving field of cancer research.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10861780
- **Project number:** 5T32CA009109-48
- **Recipient organization:** UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA
- **Principal Investigator:** Andrew Carl Dudley
- **Activity code:** T32 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2024
- **Award amount:** $424,585
- **Award type:** 5
- **Project period:** 1976-07-01 → 2027-06-30

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10861780

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10861780, Cancer Research Training Program: From Molecular Mechanisms to Therapeutic Strategies (5T32CA009109-48). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-23 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10861780. Licensed CC0.

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