Shaping the Next Generation of Researchers and Clinicians

Training the next generation of pediatric cancer researchers and clinicians takes more than classroom time. It takes immersion into the real-world questions, teams, and stakes that define the field. The true challenge lies in breaking down traditional silos to foster collaborative research ecosystems and learning methods. This philosophy drives the ACCESS Summer Research Program, a curated 10-week learning experience designed to immerse graduate and medical students, and clinical trainees, from Canadian universities and hospitals in interactive sessions regarding pediatric cancer research and care.

“The research program deliberately steps away from isolated lab work. Instead, it exposes emerging talent to a diverse spectrum of disciplines, ranging from basic research to drug development to survivorship and psychosocial care,” shared Laura Wheaton, Pediatric Hematologist-Oncologist, Kingston Heath Sciences Centre and Co-Lead, Education & Training research theme, ACCESS. By bringing researchers, healthcare professionals, and Persons With Lived Experience (PWLEs) into the same room, the experience helps reshape how future scientists view the fight against childhood cancer.

Over the past three years, approximately 100 students have taken part in the program, which is designed to support educational growth and career development early in a trainee’s trajectory. Transitioning from textbooks to active research can be daunting, but research experience frameworks can provide a crucial buffer.

For Giancarlo Di Giuseppe, Research Fellow, Hospital for Sick Children and a 2025 trainee within the summer program who served as a presenter this year, “As a student, I was more focused on learning the fundamentals of the science I was doing. As a fellow, I feel that I have taken ownership of my research and growing my network of collaborators. Being involved with ACCESS has made that transition less daunting, as the research experience has allowed me to connect with several new mentors, peers, and PWLE.”

This sentiment is echoed by a returning student who emphasizes the long-term professional value of staying engaged within the network, “I think the most important takeaway from this program is the inspiration that the patient partners provide. In science, it is easy to feel overwhelmed and lose sight of the overall goal of research – improving patients’ lives. Having the opportunity to speak and to learn from PWLE reminds me why I am researching cancer and who I am doing it for”, added Mathew Tempel, PhD Student, University of Manitoba.

The 10-week learning program is grounded in a robust weekly seminar schedule designed to expand knowledge and address any gaps in understanding. Rather than focusing exclusively on therapeutics, the curriculum covers a broad range of topics including an introduction to pediatric cancer, diverse types of research, conversations with PWLE, social justice and inclusion initiatives, and navigating mentorship pathways.

The wide range of topics included allows for expansion of trainees’ knowledge beyond what is in their specific area of study and research. “Since I spend more time on the side of therapeutic research, I was largely unaware of the ongoing initiatives regarding the social aspects of cancer and survivorship,” noted one student attendee. “Seeing presentations from various aspects of research was very interesting.”

Another trainee reflected on how the curriculum expanded their clinical perspective, “It was beneficial to learn how we can look beyond physical treatment toward psychosocial interventions to provide more holistic care for all children with cancer and their families.”

“Through the summer research program, we are providing students with the opportunity to learn and connect with other trainees and researchers from across the country.  Our hope is that we will be able to continue to spark their interest in research and potential in fields they have had exposure to before and connect with their peers and researchers from institutions outside of their own”, added Meera Rayar, Pediatric Hematologist-Oncologist, BC Children’s Hospital and Co-Lead, Education & Training research theme, ACCESS.

“The most important takeaway is that good research is never done in isolation. I think students will walk away from this experience understanding just how diverse childhood cancer research truly is and that it takes people from many fields coming together for a common cause”, added Giancarlo Di Giuseppe. “I also hope that students will gain a sense of community, walking away feeling they belong in this field, and gain the confidence to contribute meaningfully to it in the years to come.”