The Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (CPRIT) training program at Baylor College of Medicine is more than a grant program — it’s a vibrant engine for the next generation of cancer innovation and discovery.

Established with a vision to cultivate a diverse pool of top-tier cancer researchers, this program has evolved into a cornerstone of Baylor’s cancer research efforts. Since its inception, the CPRIT training program has been integrated into Baylor’s cancer biology training infrastructure. This synergy has attracted a wealth of talented trainees, particularly those from underrepresented minorities, and has significantly bolstered the research capabilities of the Dan L Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center. Over the past 14 years, CPRIT has supported 359 trainees, each bringing their unique perspectives and talents to the College. This includes 251 Summer Undergraduate Research Training Program (SMART) students, 64 predoctoral students, 18 postdoctoral trainees and 26 clinical fellows focusing on a diverse array of cancer research projects, from basic science to cutting-edge translational studies.

CPRIT training program at Baylor College of Medicine

The trainees’ contributions during their supported research time are nothing short of remarkable. They have published more than 150 cancer-relevant papers, with approximately 40% appearing in high-impact journals with impact factors above 10. These publications have significantly advanced our understanding of cancer and have positioned our trainees as leaders in their respective fields.

What truly sets this program apart is a commitment to inclusivity. Several of our trainees were born in other countries and immigrated to the U.S. and often face barriers to obtaining federal grants due to residency or citizenship requirements. However, the CPRIT training program breaks down these barriers, focusing solely on the science and the potential of the individual. This approach has opened doors for many talented researchers who might otherwise have been excluded from critical funding opportunities. Dr. Conrad Russell Y. Cruz, a program alumnus, earned his Ph.D. at Baylor and is now principal investigator for the Program for Cell Enhancement and Technologies for Immunotherapies (CETI) at Children’s National Hospital. Dr. Antonina Kurtova, another Ph.D. graduate, published a first author paper in Nature that helped form the basis of a clinical trial in bladder cancer; completed postdoctoral training at Genentech; and is now a senior principal scientist at Bristol Myers Squib. These stories exemplify the program’s success in launching illustrious cancer research careers in both academia and industry.

The CPRIT training grant has been a lifeline, especially during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic, which saw a reduction in available fellowships from charitable foundations. By providing the crucial funding needed, the grant enabled Baylor to continue recruiting and supporting researchers.

None of this would have been possible without the tireless efforts of Dr. Jeffrey Rosen, principal investigator of this grant and director of the CPRIT training program. His unwavering dedication and relentless pursuit of funding renewals have kept the program thriving. His leadership and vision have been instrumental in nurturing and ensuring its continued success. We owe a tremendous debt of gratitude to Dr. Rosen for his hard work and commitment.

Since joining as co-PI in 2022, I have witnessed the transformative impact of this program, including our recent symposium which showcased research from current support alumni. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to CPRIT for their continued support; their funding has been vital in sustaining our training program.
Looking to the future, we are inspired by the extraordinary achievements of our trainees, knowing that we are fostering a new generation of scientists who will continue to break barriers and make discoveries. The CPRIT training program at Baylor is a testament to the power of dedication, innovation and inclusivity.

Learn more about CPRIT.

Written by Dr. Valentina Hoyos, assistant professor in the Center for Cell and Gene Therapy in the Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center