Training future cancer researchers and surgeons
Official title: FUture Surgeons and Scientists Investigating ONcology
Funded at University of Alabama at Birmingham · NIH-10933703 · Data updated 2026-11-12
The FUSSION program at the University of Alabama at Birmingham is designed to encourage college students from diverse backgrounds to explore careers in cancer research by providing them with hands-on experience and support from experienced scientists over two years.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Alabama at Birmingham NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Birmingham, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $81,069 |
| NIH project number | 1R25CA281680-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10933703 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this program are college students from underrepresented backgrounds who are interested in pursuing careers in cancer research.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not college students or who do not have an interest in biomedical sciences may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
The FUture Surgeons and Scientists Investigating ONcology (FUSSION) program at the University of Alabama at Birmingham aims to inspire college students from underrepresented groups to pursue careers in cancer research. This program offers a two-year mentored research experience where students work closely with established physician-scientists on cancer-related projects. Participants will also engage in monthly workshops that cover essential topics in cancer biology, scientific communication, and professional development, equipping them with the skills needed for a successful career in biomedical sciences.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a more diverse workforce in cancer research, ultimately improving cancer treatment and outcomes for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Similar programs aimed at increasing diversity in biomedical fields have shown success in fostering interest and improving representation in research.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Birmingham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chen, Herbert — University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Study coordinator: Chen, Herbert
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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.