Training researchers to improve cancer care delivery and symptom management

Oncology-focused Postdoctoral Training in Care Delivery and Symptom Science (OPTICS)

NIH-funded research Sloan-Kettering Inst Can Research · NIH-10929548

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 typeTraining grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionSloan-Kettering Inst Can Research NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-10929548 on NIH RePORTER

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.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals affected by cancer who are seeking improved treatment outcomes and symptom management.

Not a fit: Patients who are not currently undergoing cancer treatment or those with non-oncological conditions may not receive benefits from this research.

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 performed: 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

New York, 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 Oncology Cancer
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.