Career Enhancement Program

Program Directors:

Francesmary Modugno, PhD
Katherine Aird, PhD

The mission of the Hillman Cancer Center (HCC) Ovarian Cancer (OvCa) SPORE Career Enhancement Program (CEP) is to foster the development of independent translational ovarian cancer researchers who will impact ovarian cancer care. This includes supporting not only outstanding early career scientists, but also experienced investigators wishing to transition their careers into translational ovarian cancer research, or clinical investigators well versed in the design and performance of clinical trials who wish to broaden their translational research experience. The HCC OvCa SPORE is fully committed to diversity and has established collaborations with external institutions to increase the participation of under-represented scientists in the CEP. The CEP will directly facilitate career development through:

Specific Aims

Aim 1: Constructive proposal review and feedback;

Aim 2: research training with a mentor chosen from among diverse faculty with broad expertise and experience in academic career development; and iii) access to development programs, including monthly ovarian cancer research group meetings, monthly SPORE meetings, the annual HCC and Magee Womens Research Institute retreats, and the annual SPORE retreat.

Projects that show the greatest likelihood of impact and translation to the clinic can evolve into future full SPORE projects. Ultimately, the CEP provides a vital mechanism for achieving the SPORE’s goal of developing the next generation of ovarian cancer researchers committed to overcoming this deadly disease.