SPECIAL SESSION: Developing an Interdisciplinary Behavioral Oncology Research Career

Description/Overview: The career development of an interdisciplinary research scientist requires passion for a focused problem, a nationally recognized pre and post doctoral learning experience, senior mentorship, an interdisciplinary team, and most of all- persistence. This presentation will describe the development of my journey as a behavioral oncology research scientist whose career and whose focus includes 3 primary areas: 1) tailored interactive intervention programs to increase screening for both breast and colorectal cancer, 2) use of technology to develop and deliver interventions with the intent of increasing accessibility for underserved populations, and 3) cancer survivorship which includes the study of symptoms and symptom burden in cancer survivors. My studies have been supported continuously during this time from both the National Institutes of Health and the American Cancer Society. Much of my success is due to the advice and help I have received from others. Peer review and critique are essential to all success. I consider dissemination an essential component of research and have published in nursing, medical and behavioral medicine journals with most of my publications published in interdisciplinary journals. Throughout my research career, I have mentored all levels of students and faculty, many whom have gone on to get multiple R01s My mentoring activities led to the development of our Cancer Prevention and Control program at the National Cancer Institute designated cancer center-Indiana University Simon Cancer Center. Additionally, I founded the Behavioral Cooperative Oncology Group, a collaborative organization of behavioral oncology scientists from Indiana University, the University of Michigan, Michigan State University, and The Ohio State University. My ultimate goal is to share my knowledge and experience with others so my work and the work of those scientists upon whom I built continue to advance.