Impact on Community

The COBRE Center for Cancer Research Development (CCRD) aims to promote the expansion of basic cancer research by creating a supportive research environment that facilitates the transition of promising scientists into independent investigators. Originally funded in 2002, the project received new funding in 2009.

The next phase of this award will build on the success of the CCRD in guiding promising junior investigators towards independence. Recognizing the high cancer mortality in Rhode Island, CCRD will continue to support hypothesis driven research in the area of gastrointestinal cancer.

The development of new collaborative endeavors focused on stem cells in liver/GI cancer will be overseen by a research development committee. This theme will take full advantage of the strong liver and stem cell research programs already ongoing at Rhode Island Hospital.

Five talented investigators with overlapping research interests will generate opportunities for sharing of ideas and productive interaction. While expanding basic cancer research will continue to be the primary mission of CCRD, it will also increase fundraising efforts and augment outreach activities aimed at increasing public awareness of the value of cancer research.

Fostering interactions between basic scientists and clinical oncologists through innovative programs driven by clinical observation will also be a high priority. During the next five years, CCRD will expand its leadership role in sustaining a dialogue with state and federal legislators and policy makers.

One Hoppin Street • Providence, RI 02903
Phone: 401-444-2871 • email: esmith6@lifsepan.org