Roswell Park joins with UB to launch oncology training program for nurse-scientists

Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, in partnership with the UB School of Nursing, has received a five-year, $2.11 million Institutional Clinical Scientist Awards (K12) grant from the National Cancer Institute to establish a training program for nurse-scientists focused on clinical translational research.

The Roswell Park/University at Buffalo Oncology Nurse Scientist Training Program will support two to three nurses with a PhD or equivalent degree each year, offering two years of highly personalized and advanced research training — the first such program offering advanced training in oncology research.

Designed by senior leaders in immunology and nursing at Roswell, the program aims to build a diverse cadre of expert nurse-scientists by attracting and recruiting nurses, including those from underrepresented groups, to cancer research. Supported by a team of mentors from Roswell Park and UB, trainees will gain the knowledge and experience needed to launch independent research careers that address critical issues in cancer care and health equity, leading to groundbreaking studies that enhance treatment outcomes, quality of life and survivorship for cancer patients. The goal is to train highly skilled nurse researchers to step into leadership positions at comprehensive cancer centers, medical schools and universities across the country.

“Doctorate-trained nurse-scientists bring an invaluable perspective to cancer research, bridging the gap between patient care and scientific discovery,” says Elizabeth Repasky, Distinguished Professor of Oncology and The Dr. Lawrence J. Minet Endowed Chair in Immunology at Roswell.

“With this program, we’re not only addressing a significant shortage of oncology nurse-scientists, but we’re also positioning these researchers to become future leaders in academic and clinical settings,” adds Suzanne Dickerson, professor and associate dean of the Research Doctoral Program at the School of Nursing. 

The Roswell Park/University at Buffalo Oncology Nurse Scientist Training Program funded through this new grant will provide unique opportunities for nurse-scientists to gain hands-on experience in translational oncology research while benefiting from mentorship by some of the nation’s leading cancer researchers. Trainees will have the flexibility to tailor their education through a combination of laboratory and clinical research experiences, such as in cancer immunotherapy, and the option to pursue a master’s degree in cancer sciences.

“This grant is about opening doors and creating opportunities for talented nurse-scientists,” says Andrew Storer, chief nursing officer at Roswell, who will also serve as associate director of the program. “More than just a training program, it’s an investment in the future of cancer care. By actively recruiting nurses from diverse backgrounds, we’re building a more inclusive research community that reflects the patients we serve and enhances the impact of oncology research.”