T32 Experimental Therapeutics in Cancer Training Program

Training the next generation of leaders in cancer drug development
The Experimental Therapeutics in Cancer Training Program at the OHSU Knight Cancer Institute is an immersive training program for Ph.D. and M.D. fellows. The program bridges basic and clinical research to train future translational oncology scientists in therapeutic development. It fosters collaboration and creativity in developing novel cancer therapies. Graduates are equipped for careers in academia, industry and beyond.
- Program duration: 2 years
- Eligibility: U.S. citizens or permanent residents; M.D., Ph.D., or M.D./Ph.D. degree holders
- Focus: Oncological drug development, target validation, biomarker research, and translation to clinical trials
- Co-mentorship: Required from both basic and clinical faculty
- Training location: OHSU Knight Cancer Institute in Portland, Oregon
Why join us?
- Access cutting-edge research facilities and state-of-the-art technologies
- Collaborative research environment with basic and clinical mentors
- Training in early-phase trial design, drug discovery, and regulatory processes
- Professional development in oral and written communication, grant preparation, and mentorship
- Clinical rotation opportunities with leading oncologists
Program highlights
- Interdisciplinary training: Hands-on experience in preclinical and clinical settings
- Mentorship: Learn from top experts in oncology and therapeutic development
- Workshops and seminars: Including drug development courses and responsible conduct of research
- Funding support: $1,000 for travel, conferences and networking opportunities
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- Bill Hoon Chang, M.D., Ph.D.
- Director, Leukemia and Lymphoma Program
- Bill Chang Lab
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- Brian J. Druker, M.D.
- JELD-WEN Chair of Leukemia Research
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- Robert L. Eil, M.D.
- Assistant Professor of Surgery
- Eil Lab
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- Shivaani Kummar, M.D., FACP
- Margaret and Lester DeArmond University Chair of Molecular Oncology
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- Gordon Mills, M.D.,Ph.D.
- Wayne and Julie Drinkward Endowed Chair in Precision Oncology
- SMMART Clinical Trials
How to apply
Application timeline: Apply by May 1, 2025. Expected start date: July 1, 2025.
Required materials: Submit the following as a single PDF:
- NIH biosketch
- Translational research proposal (no more than 2 pages)
- Personal statement summarizing the candidate’s training and career goals and how these align with the ETC training program (no more than one page)
- A letter from the proposed research mentor outlining a training plan for the candidate and indicating support for the candidate and their participation in the T32 program
Questions?
Email Joseph Shatzel, M.D., associate professor of biomedical engineering in the OHSU School of Medicine at shatzel@ohsu.edu.
Join our team of innovators
The application deadline is May 1, 2025, with an expected start date of July 1, 2025.
Learn more

OHSU awarded $1.4 million for new cancer drug development training program
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