Training researchers to improve cancer care delivery and symptom management
Official title: Oncology-focused Postdoctoral Training in Care Delivery and Symptom Science (OPTICS)
Funded at Sloan-Kettering Inst Can Research · NIH-10929548 · Data updated 2026-11-12
The OPTICS program is designed to help doctors and researchers learn new ways to improve cancer care and manage symptoms better, especially for those facing unfair treatment due to racism or class differences, so they can provide the best support for patients over the next two years.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Training grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Sloan-Kettering Inst Can Research NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $557,680 |
| NIH project number | 5T32CA275764-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10929548 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals affected by cancer who are seeking improved treatment outcomes and symptom management.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not currently undergoing cancer treatment or those with non-oncological conditions may not receive benefits from this research.
What this research studies
The OPTICS program trains physicians and scientists to conduct innovative research aimed at improving cancer care delivery and addressing symptom management. Participants will engage in a two-year mentored research experience focusing on areas such as data science, risk mitigation, and symptom science. The program emphasizes reducing inequities in treatment outcomes caused by structural racism and classism, equipping trainees with the necessary skills and methodologies to transform care delivery in oncology. Through intensive mentorship and structured training, the program aims to bridge the gap between current cancer treatment outcomes and what is scientifically possible.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved cancer care practices and better management of symptoms for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Other research initiatives focusing on innovative cancer care delivery have shown promise in improving patient outcomes, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Sloan-Kettering Inst Can Research
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Panageas, Katherine S — Sloan-Kettering Inst Can Research
- Study coordinator: Panageas, Katherine S
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.