Mentoring the Next Oncology Researchers

In June, The University of Kansas Cancer Center launched the Clinical Oncology Research Internship (CORI), a program designed to introduce recent college graduates to the world of early-phase clinical trials. These trials are the first step in testing new cancer treatments in humans, focusing on safety, dosage and how the body responds to investigational therapies. They are critical to advancing promising discoveries from the lab to the clinic.

The program’s foundation was inspired by the experience that Joaquina Baranda, MD, director of the cancer center’s early phase program, had working with Kamiyah Hicks, a post-baccalaureate intern. 

Inspiration for the Program 

After earning her bachelor’s degree from the University of Kansas, Hicks joined the early phase program to prepare for physician assistant school. During her internship, she led the Understanding Barriers in Early Phase Clinical Trials project, surveying patients and collaborating with investigators, practitioners and research staff to identify challenges in clinical trial participation. Reflecting on how receiving training in an immersive environment set Hicks up for successful internship, Dr. Baranda began developing CORI. 

The Inaugural Class 

In its inaugural year, CORI welcomed two interns, Tobin Wise and Anaya Dewey, who are spending a full year involved in research at the cancer center’s Early Phase Research Unit. Under the guidance of Dr. Baranda and Lisa Harlan-Williams, PhD, associate director for Education, the interns are gaining firsthand experience in clinical trial operations, participant interaction and data collection, and are collaborating with clinicians and researchers. 

“I’m really enjoying the CORI program so far and have gained a deeper understanding of how translation research functions within oncology,” says Wise. “Every experience has been incredibly valuable, from shadowing amazing oncologists to authoring my own projects for publication. The program has been a great opportunity for me to grow both academically and professionally.”