Epidemiology & Genetics Research Program - Bulletin

Epidemiology and Genetics Research Program
Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences
August 7, 2000

From: G. Iris Obrams, M.D., Ph.D.
Associate Director
Epidemiology and Genetics Research Program (EGRP)
Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences (DCCPS)
National Cancer Institute (NCI)

Dear Colleague:

In this EGRP Bulletin, we have much to report. The Epidemiology and Genetics Research Program (EGRP) is sponsoring four new Program Announcements (PAS/PA). Two PAS are for geographic-based research on cancer control and epidemiology, one each for R01s and R03s. For the two PASs combined, $3 million in total costs is budgeted for the first year of funding of each round of applications received. The other PAs are on the molecular epidemiology of prostate cancer (R01) and molecular epidemiology of HIV-associated cancers (R01). Refer to item 1 for details.

EGRP is also cosponsoring a Request for Applications (RFA) for epidemiologic approaches to the study of endocrine disruptors (R01, STAR). Refer to item 2 for details.

Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) Donna Shalala has taken several initiatives recently to increase protections for human research subjects in biomedical and behavioral research. NIH's Office for Protection from Research Risks (OPRR) has been replaced with the new Department-level Office of Human Research Protections (OHRP). NIH has responded to the Secretary's initiatives with a new requirement for education in the protection of human subjects, and a Notice concerning financial conflicts of interest and research objectivity. See item 7 for details.

Other recent developments includes an end to the requirement for Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval before NIH peer review of grant applications. An amendment to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Circular A-110 is now in effect that provides access under some circumstances to research data through the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act. Also, NIH has established new principles and guidelines for sharing biomedical resources. These changes are described in items 9, 10, and 11 respectively.

Other items in the Bulletin provide information about NCI's plans and priorities, and information and resources for preparing grant proposals and conducting research.

We're pleased with the growth of EGRP's research portfolio. In 1990, EGRP had responsibility for administrative oversight of about 200 research grants, and by last year, the number had more than doubled to 430. During the same time period, the Program's budget nearly tripled, increasing from $40 million to $154 million. Our staff is expanding to better meet the Program's needs, and our latest staff appointments are mentioned in item 5. We have also advertised to hire a new nutrition epidemiologist. See item 6 for further information on the position.

If you have problems receiving this communication, please contact Ms. Dorothy Sanders, tel.: 301-402-7199; e-mail: ds36u@nih.gov, and provide your fax number so that we can get the information to you while we try do determine the problem. If your e-mail address or other contact information has changed, please contact Ms. Sanders.

This newsletter will be placed on EGRP's Web site along with past Bulletins. The Web site address is: http://epi.grants.cancer.gov, and choose "What's New."

See below for news and information on the following topics:

New Program Announcements Issued
New Request for Applications Issued
NCI's Plans and Priorities Provide Road Map
NCI Associate Director for Health Disparities Named, The Challenge
Staff Appointments Announced
Position Advertised for Nutrition Epidemiologist
HHS Takes Action to Strengthen Protections of Human Research Subjects
Your Contacts for Single Project Assurances
Prior IRB Approval Is No Longer Required for Applications
Principles and Guidelines for Obtaining and Disseminating Biomedical Research Resources
OMB Amendment on Access to Research Data Under Freedom of Information Act
Allow Sufficient Time to Apply for Conference Grant Support
Commentary Discusses Informed Consent Issues
Cancer Prevention Fellowship Program Applications Due Sept. 1
NCI Creates Web Hubs for Access to Research Tools and Services
"Science Behind the News" Web Site Gives Cancer and Cancer Genetics Information
On-going Program Announcements Listed
EGRP Staff Contacts by Topic Areas
Friends of EGRP Listserv Available

1. New Program Announcements Issued

EGRP is sponsoring the following recently issued PASs and PAs (in addition to the on-going PAs mentioned in item 17):

* Geographic-based Research in Cancer Control and Epidemiology - Two new Program Announcements (PAS) invite applications using the Atlas of Cancer Mortality in the United States, 1950-1994 as a catalyst for research in cancer etiology and control. There is a need for further epidemiologic research to identify the reasons for the geographic variation of specific cancers, including the clustering of areas with high or low incidence and/or mortality rates. In addition, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) provide new tools to explore these patterns and for use by cancer surveillance and control programs.

NCI wishes to stimulate research in three areas to encourage researchers to use the Atlas to speed the process of scientific discovery and application. These areas are: (1) epidemiologic research to study determinants of the geographic patterns uncovered by the Atlas, (2) use of GIS for cancer research in response to the Atlas, and (3) methodologic GIS research needed to accomplish these types of research. The Atlas is available at http://www.cancer.gov/atlas.

Separate announcements for investigator-initiated R01 and R03 (small grant) applications appear in the NIH Guide for Grants and Contracts, July 14, 2000. Letters of intent are due: Oct. 9, 2000, and June 14, 2001. Applications are due Nov. 13, 2000, and July 19, 2001. The Web site addresses for the announcements are: http://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/pa-files/PAS-00-120.html (R01), and http://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/pa-files/PAS-00-121.html (R03).

The Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences (DCCPS) has budgeted $3 million in total costs, for the PASs combined, for the first year of funding of each round of applications received, subject to availability of funds.

Contact: Mr. Burdette (Bud) Erickson, tel.: 301- 435-4913; fax: 301-402-4279; e-mail: be13u@nih.gov.

* Molecular Epidemiology of Prostate Cancer (PA-00-080) - This PA invites interdisciplinary investigations, particularly those involving collaborations of epidemiologists with laboratory scientists in conducting population studies, that can further our understanding of prostate cancer development and progression. While the PA focuses on relevant biological markers of prostate carcinogenesis, its goal is to encourage biomarker research with future applicability for impacting public health. Of special interest are improvement in field methods, transitional and translational studies, and development of statistical models for data analyses and interpretation. For basic and laboratory-based research (for example, experiments using animal models or molecular technology), applicants may refer to "NCI Initiatives Applicable to Prostate Cancer Research" at: http://www.cancer.gov/prostate.html. This PA is a continuation of PA-99-055 and is in effect until March 2002.

The PA appeared in the NIH Guide, March 24, 2000: http://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/pa-files/PA-00-080.html.

Contact: Dr. Kumiko Iwamoto, preferably by e-mail: ki6n@nih.gov; tel.: 301-435-4911; or fax: 301-402-4279.

* Molecular Epidemiology of HIV-associated Cancers (PA-00-086) - This PA invites grant applications for interdisciplinary studies to better understand the molecular epidemiology and role of cofactors in the etiology of preneoplastic conditions and cancers occurring among persons infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), specifically those cancers associated with the DNA viruses, including human papilloma virus (HPV), Epstein Barr virus (EBV), and human herpes virus 8/Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpes virus (HHV8/KSHV). The application receipt dates for this PA are the same as the deadlines for all National Institutes of Health (NIH) AIDS-related grants (May 1, September 1, and January 2). The PA is in effect until April 2002.

The announcement appeared in the NIH Guide, April 7, 2000: http://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/pa-files/PA-00-086.html.

Contact in EGRP: Ms. Vaurice Starks, by e-mail: vs38j@nih.gov. A new feature in this PA is a request for behavioral-oriented research in these areas. Direct inquiries about applications with a primary focus on behavioral science to: Wendy Nelson, Ph.D., Behavioral Research Program, DCCPS; tel.: 301-435-4590; fax: 301-435-7547; e-mail: wn14x@nih.gov.

The PA is cosponsored with the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR), for whom the contact is Dr. Denise Russo, e-mail: Denise.Russo@nih.gov.

2. New Request for Applications Issued

NCI is a cosponsor of the RFA Endocrine Disruptors: Epidemiologic Approaches (RFA-OH-01-001). The RFA invites proposals for research on the relationship between exposure to endocrine disruptors and cancer in humans, with a focus on epidemiologic approaches. Letters of intent are due Aug. 11, and applications are due Sept. 22.

The RFA appeared in the NIH Guide, June 16, 2000: http://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/rfa-files/RFA-OH-01-001.html.

Contact: Dr. Kumiko Iwamoto, preferably by e-mail: ki6n@nih.gov; tel.: 301-435-4911; or fax: 301-402-4279. Refer to the RFA for contacts of other sponsors.

3. NCI's Plans and Priorities Provide Road Map

NCI articulates its annual plans and priorities in The Nation's Investment in Cancer Research. This annual plan and budget document has been called the "Bypass Budget" because NCI submits its budget request directly to the President for review and transmittal to Congress, and bypasses the usual process of HHS and Office of Management and Budget (OMB) review and approval. The special "Bypass Budget" authority was given to NCI by the National Cancer Act of 1971.

The document is an excellent way to stay abreast of where NCI seeks to channel its resources, activities, and energy to capitalize on advances in research. Every three years, NCI identifies areas that are "Extraordinary Opportunities for Investment" -- areas where focused research efforts and increased resources can produce dramatic progress toward reducing the burden of cancer. Six Extraordinary Opportunities have been identified thus far, and the first three in particular, provide a road Map for channeling DCCPS's activities: (1) genes and the environment; (2) research on tobacco and tobacco-related cancers; (3) cancer communications; (4) molecular targets of prevention and treatment; (5) cancer imaging; and (6) defining the signatures of cancer cells: detection, diagnosis, and therapy.

DCCPS, under the leadership of Division Director Barbara K. Rimer, Dr.P.H., has a lead role in implementing the Extraordinary Opportunities aimed at research on tobacco and tobacco-related cancers and on cancer communications. NCI's Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics (DCEG) and DCCPS have co-leadership roles in the Extraordinary Opportunity to further research on genes and environment.

NCI has also identified "Challenges," which are areas where investment will ensure the needed infrastructure and enable rapid and efficient translation of research findings into effective prevention and treatment approaches. These Challenges focus on investigator-initiated research; centers, networks, and consortia; the clinical trials program, informatics and information flow; study of emerging trends in cancer; training, education, and career development; quality of cancer care; and reducing cancer-related health disparities.

The FY 2001 planning document may be accessed at http://2001.cancer.gov/opps.htm.

You may preview the draft FY 2002 document at http://planning.cancer.gov. The six current Extraordinary Opportunities will be continued into the FY 2002 plan and budget request.

4. NCI Associate Director for Health Disparities Named, The Challenge

NCI Director Richard D. Klausner, M.D., has appointed Harold P. Freeman, M.D., as associate director for reducing health disparities. Dr. Freeman will direct the implementation of the NCI strategic plan to reduce cancer-related health disparities, and find ways to return research discoveries into the delivery of services to reduce these disparities. He currently is chairman of the President's Cancer Panel, a three-member board that monitors the development and execution of the activities of the National Cancer Program, and reports directly to the President. He is also the president and chief executive officer, and director of surgery at North General Hospital, New York City.

The NCI Strategic Plan to Reduce Health Disparities is part of a major national commitment to identify and address the underlying causes of disease and disability in racial and ethnic communities. Because these communities carry an unequal burden of cancer-related health disparities, NCI is working to enhance its research, education, and training programs that focus on populations in need. Robert A. Hiatt, M.D., Ph.D., DCCPS Deputy Director; John F. Kerner, Ph.D., DCCPS Assistant Deputy Director for Research Dissemination and Diffusion, Ph.D.; and others are part of a trans-NC-Divisional group assisting to implement the plan. The forthcoming "Bypass Budget" for 2002 will have reduction of cancer-related disparities as one of its Challenges, and DCCPS will take the lead in its implementation.

The NCI Strategic Plan to Reduce Health Disparities is available at http://www.cancer.gov/announcements/healthdisp.html.

5. Staff Appointments Announced

In the past few months, EGRP has made several staffing changes and new appointments:

* Jay Choudhry, M.S., is the new Program Director for SBIR and STTR Programs, and also continues in his role as a biomedical informatics specialist. Before joining EGRP, he held various positions as a scientist or scientific information specialist in NCI's Research Analysis and Evaluation Branch, Division of Extramural Activities (DEA); NIH's Division of Research Grants (DRG); and Microbiology Associates, Inc., Bethesda, Md. Mr. Choudhry may be reached by tel.: 301-435-6613; fax: 301-402-4279; e-mail: jc126b@nih.gov.

* Burdette (Bud) Erickson, M.Sc., who had been the Program Director for the SBIR and STTR Programs, continues to oversee those biometry research grants that are not funded through the two programs. He also has lead responsibility for the new PASs on geographic-based research on cancer control and epidemiology, and handles many of EGRP's information technology issues. His contact information remains unchanged: tel.: 301-435-4913; fax: 301-402-4279; e-mail: be13u@nih.gov.

* Deborah (Debbie) Winn, Ph.D., has joined the Office of the Associate Director, EGRP, to assist in capitalizing on NCI's Tobacco Extraordinary Opportunity by developing initiatives related to this opportunity and undertaking epidemiologic research on tobacco-related cancers, particularly oral and pharyngeal cancers. Dr. Winn came from the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR), where she led a program of epidemiologic research focusing on oral and pharyngeal cancer, oral health status, tobacco and oral diseases, and oral manifestations of systemic diseases. Earlier, she was a researcher in NCI's Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics (DCEG). Dr. Winn may be reached by tel.: 301-594-9499; fax: 301-402-4279; e-mail: dw234c@nih.gov.

* Alex Vega has joined the Clinical and Genetic Epidemiology Research Branch (CGERB) as a program analyst. He previously worked in DEA, where he provided administrative and technical support for grant and contract proposal reviews. Mr. Vega may be reached by tel: 301-496-0603; fax: 301-435-6609; e-mail: vegaa@mail.nih.gov.

6. Position Advertised for Nutrition Epidemiologist

EGRP's Analytic Epidemiology Research Branch (AERB) is seeking a Health Scientist Administrator who will plan, coordinate, and administer a national research program in the nutritional epidemiology of human cancers. The incumbent will manage a portfolio of grants in nutritional epidemiology, and organize workshops and meetings to define new research opportunities, leading to new initiatives. As a recognized scientific expert in the nutritional epidemiology of human cancers, the incumbent will provide leadership and direction for research programs of national and international scope and impact, which have the potential to impact on the clinical practice and/or the health care system in the areas of cancer prevention, public health, or participation in research. This full-time permanent position is located in NCI's offices in Rockville, Md. Refer to the vacancy announcement for further information, including qualification and eligibility requirements. U.S. citizenship is required. NIH is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

The deadline for receipt of applications is Dec. 31, 2000. (The NIH on-line vacancy announcement presently gives an October deadline and will be changed.) Applications should be submitted to the attention of Ms. Nancy Greenblatt (NCI-00-2122), National Institutes of Health, NCI Human Resources Office, 6120 Executive Blvd., Executive Plaza South, Rm. 550, Rockville, Md. 20852-7211; tel.: 301-496-8571; fax: 301-402-9333; and by TTY: 301-435-8375.

The vacancy announcement, NCI-00-2122, and application information may be accessed on NIH's Web site at http://careerhere.nih.gov/CHPublic/HRShowVac.taf?&VACANCY_uid1=4770.

7. HHS Takes Action to Strengthen Protections of Human Research Subjects

Donna Shalala, Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), recently announced several initiatives to bolster protections for human research subjects in clinical trials. The Department's actions heighten government oversight of biomedical research and reinforce to research institutions their responsibility to oversee their clinical researchers and institutional review boards. Her announcement addressed actions to be undertaken in the areas of education and training, informed consent, improved monitoring, conflict of interest, and civil monetary penalties. Two press releases describe the initiatives: http://www.hhs.gov/news/press/2000pres/20000523.html, and http://www.hhs.gov/news/press/2000pres/20000606a.html.

Of particular relevance to EGRP-supported investigators:

* A new HHS-level Office for Human Research Protections (OHRP) has been established to lead efforts for protecting human subjects in biomedical and behavioral research. Edward Greg Koski, Ph.D., M.D., has been named director. The new office replaces NIH's Office for Protection from Research Risks (OPRR). Dr. Koski's appointment is announced at http://www.hhs.gov/news/press/2000pres/20000606.html.

* OHRP's has a new Web site: http://ohrp.osophs.dhhs.gov/dpa-staff.htm.

* NIH has issued a new policy on required education in the protection of research subjects. Before funds are awarded for competing applications, or for contract proposals involving human subjects, investigators must provide a description of education completed in the protection of human subjects for each individual identified as key personnel in the proposed research. After October 1, 2000, investigators who are submitting non-competing renewal applications for grants or annual reports for research and development contracts that involve human subjects research, must also include a description of relevant education in their annual progress reports.

NIH does not plan to endorse education programs. There are readily available curricula and some of them are mentioned in the NIH Guide Notice, such as an on-line NIH tutorial on protection of human research subjects. For details, refer to "Required Education in the Protection of Human Research Subjects," NIH Guide, June 9, 2000: http://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/notice-files/NOT-OD-00-039.html.

NCI's Division of Extramural Activities (DEA) has developed a set of Frequently Asked Questions and responses to help investigators understand the new requirement: http://grants.nih.gov/grants/policy/hs_educ_faq.htm.

* HHS's Office of Research Integrity (ORI) and the Public Health Service (PHS) have released for comment a draft of a new policy on instruction in the responsible conduct of research. The draft policy applies to all individuals who are conducting research with PHS support. It is posted on ORI's Web site, and comments are due by Aug. 21, 2000. A new policy is expected to be announced by Oct. 1, 2000. The Web site address is http://ori.dhhs.gov.

The policy would apply to principal investigators; co-principal investigators; senior investigators; institutional officials who approve PHS grants, contracts, or cooperative agreements; tenure-track investigators; students; postdoctoral fellows; technicians; staff scientists; data management staff; subcontractors; consultants; clinicians; research nurses; research associates; research assistants and anyone else involved in conducting the research who receives research training at the institution; or under the direction of the institution.

* NIH has also issued a Notice on concerns about financial considerations that may compromise, or have the appearance of compromising, an investigator's professional judgment and independence in the design, conduct, or publication of research. On Aug. 15-16, 2000, HHS will host a forum on financial conflicts of interest that will focus on the conduct of clinical trials. The Notice, "Financial Conflicts of Interest and Research Objectivity: Issues for Investigators and Institutional Review Boards," appeared in the NIH Guide, June 9, 2000: http://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/notice-files/NOT-OD-00-040.html.

8. Your Contacts for Single Project Assurances

OHRP has updated the list of contacts for obtaining single project assurances for protection of human subjects. Refer to OHRP's Web site at http://ohrp.osophs.dhhs.gov/dpa-staff.htm.

9. Prior IRB Approval Is No Longer Required for Applications

Institution Review Board (IRB) approval is no longer required before NIH peer review of grant applications, according to a recent policy change made by NIH. The new policy takes effect with applications submitted for the January 2001 Council round (those applications submitted for June/July 2000 receipt dates). This change is to ease the workload of busy IRBs and applicants. Nevertheless, institutions may still determine that certain lines of research, or mechanisms of research, should have IRB review prior to submission of applicants. Grants cannot be awarded without IRB approval. Therefore, after NIH peer review and notification of priority score/percentile, institutions should proceed with IRB review for those applications that have not received IRB approval and appear to be in funding range.

More information is available at http://grants.nih.gov/grants/irb_review_pol.htm.

10. Principles and Guidelines for Obtaining and Disseminating Biomedical Research Resources

Several years ago, NIH Director Harold Varmus, M.D., asked a working group of the Advisory Committee to the Director to investigate problems encountered in the dissemination and use of unique research resources, the competing interests of intellectual property owners and research tools, and possible NIH responses. The working group found that intellectual property restrictions can stifle the broad dissemination of new discoveries and limit future avenues of research and product development. However, reasonable restrictions on the dissemination of research tools are sometimes necessary to protect legitimate proprietary interests and to preserve incentive for commercial development. One recommendation was that NIH issue guidance to its funding recipients to help them achieve the appropriate balance.

This guidance is provided in "Sharing Biomedical Resources: Principles and Guidelines for Recipients of NIH Research Grants and Contracts." The principles and guidelines are to help funding recipients determine reasonable terms and conditions for making NIH-funded research resources available to scientists in other institutions in the public and private sectors, and restrictions to accept as a condition of receiving access to research tools for use in NIH-funded research. The four principles are: (1) ensure academic freedom and publication, (2) ensure appropriate implementation of the Bayh-Dole Act, (3) minimize administrative impediments to academic research, and (4) ensure dissemination of research resources developed with NIH funds.

The principles and guidelines can be accessed at http://www.nih.gov/od/ott/RTguide_final.htm.

11. OMB Amendment on Access to Research Data Under Freedom of Information Act

An amendment to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Circular A-110 that provides access under some circumstances to research data through the Freedom of Information Act (FOI) took effect in April for NIH grantees. The amendment applies to new and competing continuation awards made after that date. It applies to data that are (1) first produced in a project that is supported in whole or in part with Federal funds, and (2) cited publicly and officially by a federal agency in support of an action that has the force and effect of law. Further, it applies to data collected by institutions of higher education, hospitals, and non-profit institutions that receive grants and other financial assistance provided by Federal agencies. It does not apply to data collected by commercial organizations, and most data collected by state and local governments. Ongoing data sharing plans should not be affected. A joint Federal agency Notice appeared in the Federal Register, March 16, 2000.

For details, access the NIH grants "News Flash" Web site at http://grants.nih.gov/grants/newsarchive_2000.htm#20000425.

12. Allow Sufficient Time to Apply for Conference Grant Support

NIH's conference grant mechanism recognizes the value of scientific meetings, conferences, and workshops to support the mission and priorities of the Institutes. In applying, NCI advises investigators to allow a minimum of six months, and preferably nine months, for review and funding. Investigators are also encouraged to submit applications (R13) for multiple years. Up to five years of support is possible. We advise that you consult the appropriate Program Director before submitting an application.

General guidance for applicants appears in "Guidelines for Support of Scientific Meetings by NIH," NIH Guide, Oct. 30, 1998. The Web site address is http://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/notice-files/not98-151.html.

13. Commentary Discusses Informed Consent Issues

Members of the Cooperative Family Registry for Breast Cancer Studies (CFRBCS) have published a commentary on issues of informed consent. The paper discusses the content of a proposed consent form, including the study's purpose; eligibility; procedures; use of registry data; property rights; risks, benefits, and costs; and confidentiality. Areas of particular importance for registry participation are also discussed, such as privacy and confidentiality, use of data and biospecimens by investigators outside the Registry, the communication of research results, legal and regulatory issues for multiple sites, and geographic and cultural issues. The commentary appeared in the Journal of The National Cancer Institute 2000 Mar 15;92(6):452-456.

The authors are: Mary Daly, M.D., Ph.D., Fox Chase Cancer Center, Cheltenham, Pa.; Kenneth Offit, M.D., M.P.H., Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY; Frederick Li, M.D., Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Mass.; Gord Glendon, Ontario Cancer Genetics Network, Cancer Care Ontario, Canada; Alice Yaker, New York, NY; Dee West, Ph.D., Northern California Cancer Center, Union City, Calif.; Barbara Koenig, Ph.D., Center for Biomedical Ethics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, Calif.; M. Margaret McCredie, M.D., New South Wales Cancer Council, Kings Cross, Australia; Vicki Venne, M.S., Huntsman Cancer Research Center, Salt Lake City, Utah; and Susan Nayfield, M.D., M.Sc., and Daniela Seminara, Ph.D., M.P.H., NCI.

The Registry has enrolled more than 5000 families who have a history of breast and/or ovarian cancer. The six participating institutions collect pedigree information, epidemiologic data, and related biologic specimens. The Registry, and its companion Cancer Family Registry for Colorectal Cancer Studies (CFRCCS), are valuable resources for interdisciplinary investigations on genetic and environmental susceptibility to these cancers. Researchers are welcome to apply for use of the Registries' resources.

EGRP is modifying the names of the Registries to call them "Cancer" Family Registries, instead of "Cooperative" Family Registries. The change is to help more readily communicate about them to audiences.

For more information on the Cancer Family Registries, visit DCCPS's home page at http://cancercontrol.cancer.gov, and refer to the shortcut menu.

14. Cancer Prevention Fellowship Program Applications Due Sept. 1

Cancer Prevention Fellowship Program trains M.D.s, other clinicians, and Ph.D.s, in the field of cancer prevention and control. Fellows may obtain Master of Public Health (M.P.H.) training at an accredited university during the first year of their fellowship, which is followed by independent research assignments in cancer prevention and control at NCI's facilities in Bethesda, Rockville, and Frederick, Md. Applications are due Sept. 1, 2000. The appointment start date is July 1, 2001. For more information, contact Douglas Weed, M.D., M.P.H., Ph.D., or Ms. Barbara Redding, 301-496-8640. Also, visit the Web site at http://dcp.nci.nih.gov/pob. For other training information, visit NCI's Cancer Research Training, Career Development, and Educational Opportunities Web site at http://cancertraining.nci.nih.gov/index.html.

One of EGRP's Program Directors came across an article that may be especially helpful to young investigators, "Tips for Getting Your Research Grant Application Funded on the First Try!" The article was written by the National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS) and appeared in Pharmaceutical Research 16(10)1999:1495-1497.

15. NCI Creates Web Hubs for Access to Research Tools and Services

A directory of research tools and services for cancer researchers is now available on NCI's Web site. Links are included to information on funding opportunities, grant funding resources (including research resources), NCI research plans and priorities, scientific opportunities, and training. The Web site address is http://resresources.nci.nih.gov/.

Also, DCCPS has developed the "Researchers' Toolbox," an on-line resource for cancer control researchers. It includes information on new developments in cancer control research, grant policy and procedure issues, cancer-related statistics, meetings, grant writing assistance, products, services, and much more. Access the "Researchers' Toolbox" at http://cancercontro.cancer.gov/TOOLBOX/default.html.

For print copies of the newsletter Researchers' Toolbox, send an e-mail request to vc24a@nih.gov.

16. "Science Behind the News" Web Site Gives Cancer and Cancer Genetics Information

NCI recently opened "Science Behind the News" on the Web. The site has self-teaching modules that explain for the layperson complex scientific concepts involved in cancer research and seen in today's news. Five modules are now available: "Understanding Cancer," "Understanding Gene Testing," "Understanding Estrogen Receptors, Tamoxifen, and Raloxifen," "Understanding Angiogenesis," and "Understanding Gene Testing." The Web site is at http://rex.nci.nih.gov/behindthenews/index.html.

NCI has several other educational resources related to some of these topics:

* A new slide kit "Understanding Cancer," based on the Web-based version, is available for health educators through NCI's on-line Publications Locator at http://publications.nci.nih.gov, and click on "Genetics."

* A limited supply of the 1996 slide kit "Understanding Cancer Genetics" is available by calling the CIS 1-800-4-CANCER (1-800-422-6237).

* "The Breast Cancer Risk Assessment Tool" is a computer program that women and their health care providers can use to estimate a woman's chances of developing breast cancer based on several recognized risk factors. The Tool, developed in 1998, is available from the on-line Publications Locator.

17. On-going Program Announcements Listed

Since our last Bulletin, some of the NIH Guide Web site addresses for PAs have changed. Updated URLS are provided below. (If you have difficulty with a link, try the search feature at the NIH Guide: http://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/index.html.)

In addition to the new PASs/PAs and RFA mentioned in items 1 and 2, EGRP continues to sponsor:

* Mechanisms Underlying Individual Variations in Drug Responses (PA-99-016). Contact: Dr. Kumiko Iwamoto, tel.: 301-435-4911; fax: 301-402-4279; e-mail: ki6n@nih.gov. Access the PA at http://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/pa-files/PA-99-016.html.

* Occupational Safety and Health Research (PA-99-143). Contact: Dr. Kumiko Iwamoto, tel.: 301-435-4911; fax: 301-402-4279; e-mail: ki6n@nih.gov. Access the PA at http://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/pa-files/PA-99-143.html.

* Research Methods for Occupational Cancer (PA 99-148). Contact: Dr. Kumiko Iwamoto, tel.: 301-435-4911; fax: 301-402-4279; e-mail: ki6n@nih.gov. Access the PA at http://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/pa-files/PA-99-148.html.

* Small Grants Program for Cancer Epidemiology (PAR-98-023). Contact: Dr. A.R. (Joe) Patel, tel.: 301-435-4910; fax: 301-402-4279; e-mail: ap39f@nih.gov. Access the PA at http://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/pa-files/PAR-98-023.html, and addendum at http://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/notice-files/not98-026.html.

* Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer Research (STTR) Programs. Contact: Mr. Jay Choudhry, tel.: 301-435-6613; fax: 301-402-4279; e-mail: jc126b@nih.gov. Detailed information on the two programs is available at http://grants.nih.gov/grants/funding/sbir.htm.

18. EGRP Staff Contacts by Topic Areas

You are welcome to contact our Program Directors for advice and consultation about NIH and NC funding and scientific review policies and procedures, the preparation of grant applications, and funding instruments that relate to EGRP's mission. Your contacts according to research topic are:

Analytic Epidemiology Research Branch (AERB)
Sandra Melnick, Dr.P.H., Branch Chief
Tel.: 301-435-4914; fax: 301-402-4279; email: sm33k@nih.gov.

* Biometry -
Burdette Erickson, M.Sc., tel.: 301-435-4913; fax: 301-402-4279; e-mail: be13u@nih.gov.

* Diet, Nutrition, and Cancer -
A.R. (Joe) Patel, Ph.D., tel.: 301-435-4910; fax: 301-402-4279; e-mail: ap39f@nih.gov.

* Geographic Information Systems as Tools in Cancer Epidemiology -
Burdette Erickson, M.Sc., tel.: 301-435-4913; fax: 301-402-4279; e-mail: be13u@nih.gov.

* Infectious Disease and AIDS-malignancy Epidemiology Programs -
Vaurice Starks, tel.: 301-402-9375; fax: 301-402-4279; e-mail: vs38j@nih.gov; and
Sandra Melnick, Dr.P.H., tel.: 301-435-4914; fax: 301-402-4279; email: sm33k@nih.gov.

* Environmental/Molecular Epidemiology Programs -
Kumiko Iwamoto, M.D., Dr.P.H., tel.: 301-435-4911; fax: 301-402-4279; e-mail: ki6n@nih.gov.

* Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer Research (STTR) Programs -
Jay Choudhry, M.S., tel.: 301-435-6613; fax: 301-402-4279; e-mail: jc126b@nih.gov.

* Tobacco Research -
A.R. (Joe) Patel, Ph.D., tel.: 301-435-4910; fax: 301-402-4279, e-mail: ap39f@nih.gov.

Clinical and Genetic Epidemiology Research Branch (CGERB)
James Hanson, M.D., Acting Branch Chief
Tel.: 301-435-6612; fax: 301-435-5477; e-mail: jh350g@nih.gov.

* Cancer Genetics Network -
James Hanson, M.D., tel.: 301-435-6612; fax: 301-435-5477; e-mail: jh350g@nih.gov;
Susan Nayfield, M.D., M.Sc., tel.: 301-594-7344; fax: 301-435-5477; e-mail: sn15c@nih.gov; and
Carol Kasten-Sportes, M.D., tel.: 301-402-8212; fax: 301-435-5466; e-mail: ck168f@nih.gov.

* Clinical Epidemiology Program -
Susan Nayfield, M.D., M.Sc., tel.: 301-594-7344; fax: 301-435-5477; e-mail: sn15c@nih.gov.

* Genetic Epidemiology Program and Cancer Family Registries for Breast and Colon Cancer -
Daniela Seminara, Ph.D., M.P.H., tel.: 301-496-9600; fax: 301-435-5477; e-mail: ds79k@nih.gov.

* Clinical, Social, and Behavioral Epidemiology Research in Genetics -
Susan Nayfield, M.D., M.Sc., tel.: 301-594-7344; fax: 301-435-5477; e-mail: sn15c@nih.gov.
(You may be referred to Michael Stefanek, Ph.D., Basic Biobehavioral Research Branch, DCCPS; tel.: 301-496-8776; fax: 301-435-7547; e-mail: ms496r@nih.gov.)

19. Friends of EGRP Listserv

"FRIENDS-OF-NCI-EGRP-L," a Listserv through which we occasionally send the EGRP Bulletin and other announcements to grantees and other researchers who may be interested. We began the Listserv earlier this year by subscribing active grantees. Please feel free to spread the word about "FRIENDS." To subscribe (or unsubscribe), access the NIH LISTSERV Web site at http://list.nih.gov. Click the "Browse" button, and then click on "Access unlisted lists." Type "FRIENDS-OF-NCI-EGRP-L" and follow the prompts.

If you are in a hurry or encounter problems subscribing, contact Ms. Linda Anderson, e-mail: la30e@nih.gov, provide your name, and she'll do it for you.

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