Supporting underrepresented scholars in cancer research careers
Official title: San Diego State University Advancing Cancer Careers for ExceLlence (ACCEL)
Funded at San Diego State University · NIH-10930933 · Data updated 2026-11-12
The ACCEL program at San Diego State University is helping 70 postdoctoral fellows and graduate students each year by providing them with mentorship and support to grow their skills in cancer research, making sure they feel connected and included in their work.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | San Diego State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Diego, United States) |
| Project start | September 18, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $320,744 |
| NIH project number | 5R25CA285813-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10930933 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation are postdoctoral fellows and graduate students from underrepresented backgrounds pursuing careers in cancer research.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not involved in academic or research careers in cancer may not receive direct benefits from this program.
What this research studies
The ACCEL program at San Diego State University, in collaboration with UCSD Moores Cancer Center, aims to enhance the cancer research workforce by providing resources and support to 70 postdoctoral fellows and graduate students each year. This initiative focuses on mentoring, community engagement, and skills development to foster inclusion and excellence in cancer research. By creating a supportive environment, the program seeks to reduce isolation among scholars and improve retention in the field. Additionally, it aims to establish connections with existing resources to further assist these scholars in their careers.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly increase the number of underrepresented scholars in cancer research, leading to more diverse perspectives and innovations in the field.
How similar studies have gone: Similar initiatives have shown success in enhancing diversity and inclusion in scientific fields, indicating a promising approach for this program.
Where this research is happening
-
San Diego State University
San Diego, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lewison, Rebecca — San Diego State University
- Study coordinator: Lewison, Rebecca
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.