Factors Associated with Having Ever Considered a Cancer Research Career

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Cancer Research Workforce Development
• Health Disparities

Background:

• The National Cancer Institute prioritizes increasing diversity in the cancer research workforce.
• Cancer research spans basic, clinical, behavioral, and social sciences, yet development programs are often narrowly focused.
• Understanding undergraduate interest in cancer research is crucial for future workforce planning.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess undergraduate students' knowledge and interest in diverse cancer research careers.
• To identify factors influencing whether students have considered a career in cancer research.

Main Methods:

• A paper questionnaire was administered to 857 undergraduate students.
• Data collected included career perceptions, counseling experiences, personal/family cancer history, and consideration of cancer research careers.
• Statistical analysis identified factors associated with considering a cancer research career.

Main Results:

• Most students perceived cancer careers narrowly (bench science, healthcare/public health).
• Only 10% of students had considered a cancer research career.
• Factors associated with considering a cancer research career included cancer-specific counseling (OR 8.05), attending cancer appointments (OR 2.37), lower worry about developing cancer (OR 0.32), and Other race (OR 2.83).

Conclusions:

• Personal experience with cancer and awareness of career options are key drivers for pursuing cancer research.
• Targeted career counseling and early exposure to the breadth of cancer research fields, starting in junior high or high school, are vital.
• These interventions may enhance recruitment of underrepresented students into cancer research, thereby diversifying the workforce.