The UH Cancer Center is committed to helping patients live longer , healthier lives by conducting clinical research that involves people who volunteer to participate in cancer clinical trials . It is through clinical trials that researchers can better understand how to diagnose , treat , and prevent cancer , as well as improve the lives of cancer survivors . The field of clinical research is thriving in Hawai ‘ i , and jobs in this field are expected to grow 13 percent by 2026 , yet there is a shortage of clinical research professionals .
The UH Cancer Center , as the central cancer research education hub within Hawai ‘ i , provides innovative training and mentorship experiences for individuals at every age and stage of their career . In fall 2020 , the Cancer Center , in collaboration with the UH Mānoa Outreach College , launched its inaugural Clinical Research Professional ( CRP ) Certificate Program .
The CRP Certificate Program is designed to train Clinical Research Associates ( CRAs ) to work at the UH Cancer Center , our affiliated hospitals , and other academic centers in support of clinical trials . The program provides scholars with knowledge in coordinating oncology clinical trials , basic statistical and epidemiologic methods , ethical and regulatory aspects of human subjects research , protocol development , and much more . The 14-week accelerated program employed a blended learning model . Foundational knowledge was provided via online materials that students completed before they attended synchronous Zoom-based training sessions . Thirty-one students completed the program in December .
CRAs play a vital role in improving the outcomes for cancer patients and other patients participating in clinical trials . The availability of personnel appropriately trained for the specific requirements of the role they will perform in clinical research is critical for capacity expansion of the clinical trials network in Hawai ‘ i .
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