# Translational Research in Oncology Training Program

> **NIH NIH T32** · SLOAN-KETTERING INST CAN RESEARCH · 2020 · $312,047

## Abstract

Project Summary
In recent years, cancer research has entered an exciting new era in which a number of highly
effective, non-toxic targeted cancer therapies have been developed based on improved
understanding of the molecular underpinnings of cancer. Fundamental knowledge about the
biology of cancer has burgeoned, but the translation of basic science discoveries to clinical
advancements is slow and inefficient. The translation of molecular insights into clinical trials
requires that teams of physician and scientists with diverse training work together.
The objective of the Translational Research in Oncology Training (TROT) Program is to give
Trainees at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSK) a solid foundation in the field of
oncology research, while exposing them to the clinical care enterprise, so that they may make a
vibrant link between clinical and basic research. The ultimate goal of the Program is to support
the development of PhD scientists who possess the complex knowledge of their basic science
discipline, but who additionally possess the ability to translate their research into clinically
meaningful application. This Program will provide Trainees with the intensive training, resources,
and experience necessary for them to develop successful careers in academia, government, and
industry as independent translational researchers and leaders. Each year the TROT program
accepts four PhD postdoctoral fellows into the program for a two year period. Two of the four
fellows are supported by the T32. For this renewal we are requesting one additional salary line
to be paid by the T32 to accommodate our highly competitive and growing program. At the end
of their training period, fellows are expected to be prepared to apply for other federal or
foundation grants and matriculate into independent positions as translational research scientists.
The objectives are achieved by providing a structured learning environment where the Trainee
conducts a project under the mentorship of a successful, independent translational researcher.
Didactic sessions, seminar series, and a retreat reinforce their scientific training. Trainees have
the opportunity to observe patient interactions and procedures, and learn about cancer
diagnoses and staging through a rotation in Pathology. Each trainee is paired with a clinical
advisor who provides guidance, from a clinical perspective, on the Trainee's research project.
Specific aims:
 · To provide broad and intensive translational research training for PhDs by offering
 enhanced opportunities to orient their research to biomedically relevant problems.
 · To prepare Trainees to successfully collaborate during their career with researchers with
 different backgrounds.
 · To prepare and assist Trainees to successfully transition to research independence.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 9985746
- **Project number:** 5T32CA160001-10
- **Recipient organization:** SLOAN-KETTERING INST CAN RESEARCH
- **Principal Investigator:** CHARLES L. SAWYERS
- **Activity code:** T32 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2020
- **Award amount:** $312,047
- **Award type:** 5
- **Project period:** 2011-07-11 → 2022-07-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/9985746

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 9985746, Translational Research in Oncology Training Program (5T32CA160001-10). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-27 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/9985746. Licensed CC0.

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