Dr. Mark R. Green Young Investigator Award

Mrs. Judith Green generously established the Mark R. Green, M.D., Young Investigator Award in honor of her late husband Dr. Mark Green, former director of MUSC Hollings Cancer Center. Dr. Green was an important figure in the development of medical oncology and played a pivotal role in the history of Hollings Cancer Center and Moores Cancer Center at the University of California San Diego.

Dr. Green was recognized as a preeminent clinical investigator, clinician, teacher and mentor. A highly respected leader in the field of oncology, he contributed significantly to the understanding and treatment of solid tumors. Dr. Green’s research focused on clinical trials of new therapies for treating lung and pancreatic cancer. He was widely published and his impactful research improved cancer treatments, which made a difference in the lives of thousands of cancer patients worldwide.

In 1996, Dr. Green joined MUSC as the director of Hollings Cancer Center and the Mary M. Gilbreth Professor of Oncology. He served as director until 2000, and during this period, he made important contributions to the development of the cancer center in its early stages. He retired from the full-time MUSC faculty as a Professor Emeritus in 2004. In 2011, the Mark R. Green, M.D., Distinguished Endowed Visiting Professorship in Thoracic Oncology was established in honor of his contributions to Hollings and the field of thoracic oncology.

Purpose

This award provides support for young investigators working in a cancer field to pursue advanced research opportunities through participation in supplemental learning experiences, such as research-focused workshops, retreats, or symposia, where they can receive feedback on their research discoveries.

The projected outcomes from this support are to enhance the career development of the junior investigators and gain insights about their research from national and international leaders. These outcomes will, in turn, lead to additional research innovations and funding opportunities, further enhancing their career development. For more information or questions regarding the Hollings Young Investigator Award, eligibility, or the application process, please contact Renee Steffen (steffenr@musc.edu).

Eligibility

Applicants must be MUSC employees, which includes most postdoctoral fellows. Postdocs who are contractual are also eligible to apply. Early career researchers, fellows, and assistant professors involved in clinical and basic science research related to cancer may apply. Applicants must not have had a previous significant grant award (R21 or R01) and must also abide by the most current MUSC travel guidelines. Minorities and women are especially encouraged to apply, and applicants will not be discriminated against based on race, gender, disability, ethnicity, or religion. Special consideration will be given to award one clinical/translational applicant and one basic science applicant.

Evaluation

All applications will be reviewed by a panel of senior Hollings Cancer Center investigators and advisors. Awardees will be selected based on:

1. The value of how the attendance or course completion will benefit the applicant’s research interests;
2. Its relevance to cancer;
3. Letter of support from their mentor(s); and
4. The likelihood that attendance will advance the applicant’s career goals.

Award Amount

Up to $15,000 per year, per grantee.