The University of Puerto Rico Comprehensive Cancer Center (UPRCCC) is proud to announce its second NIH-sponsored cancer training program, the Research Education Program on Microbes, Infections, and Cancer (REPMIC), funded by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) with a grant of $1,853,572. This program is designed to train young Puerto Rican researchers in topics related to microbes, infections, and cancer.
REPMIC offers bachelor’s degree graduates from academic institutions in Puerto Rico the opportunity to work under the mentorship of expert cancer researchers, participating in projects that explore the relationships between infections, microbes, and cancer. Participants will also receive workshops and seminars that will strengthen their research skills and prepare them to successfully apply to graduate programs.
“This program is crucial for training the next generation of researchers in such an important field as the link between infections and cancer. It is important to highlight that 15-20% of the global cancer burden is attributed to infections. A study by the International Agency for Research on Cancer documented that in 2018, 13% of the new cancer cases diagnosed globally were attributable to infections. In addition, we know that the human microbiome is closely linked to human health.” said Dr. Ana P. Ortiz, Program Director. Dr. Marievelisse Soto-Salgado, Associate Director, added: “We have outstanding researchers in Puerto Rico who offer great learning opportunities to our students. These opportunities make a positive difference in the students’ professional lives.”
Participants will collaborate with researchers from the UPRCCC and other institutions, such as the Medical Sciences and Río Piedras campuses of the University of Puerto Rico, gaining experience in clinical, basic, translational, and population research.
For more information, you can contact us at 787-772-8300 ext. 1157, email repmic@cccupr.org, or visit our website REPMIC. Follow us on LinkedIn (REPMIC PROGRAM) and Instagram (@repmicprogram).
