Improving participation in cancer clinical trials at UPMC Hillman Cancer Center

NCI NCTN-Network Lead Academic Participating Site at UPMC Hillman Cancer Center

NIH-funded research University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-11249380

This study is working to make it easier for people with different types of cancer, especially rare ones, to join clinical trials at UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, while also helping new researchers learn how to lead these important studies and ensuring that everyone, including minorities and those from rural areas, has a chance to participate.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Pittsburgh, United States)
Project IDNIH-11249380 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing the participation and quality of late-phase clinical trials for various cancers at UPMC Hillman Cancer Center. It aims to improve the processes for activating new trials, particularly for rare cancers and specific genetic subpopulations. The project also emphasizes mentoring junior investigators to develop their skills in conducting clinical trials and taking on leadership roles within the National Clinical Trials Network. By increasing accruals to these trials, the research seeks to ensure diverse populations, including minorities and rural communities, are represented.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation include individuals with rare cancers or those belonging to genotypically-defined subpopulations, particularly from minority or rural backgrounds.

Not a fit: Patients with common cancers that are not part of the targeted trials may not receive direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for rare cancers and improve access to clinical trials for underrepresented populations.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in enhancing clinical trial participation and outcomes through similar collaborative approaches within the National Clinical Trials Network.

Where this research is happening

Pittsburgh, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Cancer Centercancers that are rare
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.