CPRIT Graduate Scholar Program

The CPRIT Graduate Scholar Training Program at MD Anderson educates exceptional predoctoral students in cancer‐related fields by providing:

• Rigorous training in basic biological and biophysical concepts pertaining to cancer
• Flexible opportunities for advanced training in specific areas of cancer research
• Training in ethical conduct and career skills, to foster career success
• Increased participation of underrepresented individuals in cancer research through active recruitment and retention efforts
• High-quality mentoring by prominent cancer researchers to enhance career development and encourage cross‐disciplinary collaboration

The CPRIT Graduate Scholar Training Program includes a first year curriculum that focuses on basic science subjects pertaining to cancer research, coupled with three laboratory tutorials and selection of a faculty mentor at the end of the year. The second year curriculum increases the scholar’s understanding of disease mechanisms and/or oncologic applications of advanced mathematical modeling and biophysical sciences through flexible coursework options. 

CPRIT Graduate Scholars are supervised by their faculty mentor, an optional co‐mentor in a complementary field, and a faculty committee with related research interests, during development of their PhD dissertation. 

The CPRIT Training Grant faculty leadership recognizes that advanced students who have nearly or fully completed their GSBS coursework requirements will be eligible for this award. Flexibility is allowed in the recommended curriculum for advanced students.

Funds from the MD Anderson CPRIT Training Grant will support up to seven CPRIT Graduate Scholars per year, including graduate student stipends, fringe benefits and a modest travel allowance. CPRIT Graduate Scholars undergo a competitive annual review, with renewed funding dependent upon successful academic and research progress as well as participation in activities related to the CPRIT Graduate Scholar Training Program (e.g., an annual CPRIT Symposium, journal clubs).