YCC, SCRI and SCH partner to advance cancer research

SCRIMay 31 2012

Sarah Cannon Research Institute (SCRI) today announced the finalization of an agreement to collaborate scientifically with Yale Cancer Center (YCC) and Smilow Cancer Hospital at Yale-New Haven (SCH) to advance cancer research.

"The integration of SCRI's broad clinical trial knowledge with Yale's translational and drug discovery expertise makes for a unique collaboration unrivaled in the field of cancer research," said SCRI Chief Executive Officer Dee Anna Smith.

"This collaboration allows top scientific thought leaders in cancer to come together to develop enhanced clinical trial opportunities and increase access for patients to the latest treatments available," said Dr. Howard "Skip" A. Burris III, chief medical officer and executive director of drug development for SCRI.

As part of the collaboration, SCRI physician scientists will partner with physician scientists from Yale Cancer Center to discuss strategic scientific priorities and develop clinical research protocols.

Other components of the partnership include the opening of a clinical trial management office on the Yale Cancer Center campus in New Haven, CT and for Smilow Cancer Hospital to develop a network of community-based sites that will participate in the program. SCRI's role in the management of the clinical trials office will be to provide assistance in opening research studies at Yale and within their community network, as well as to augment clinical trial availability and participation of patients in Yale's service area.

"Our collaboration with SCRI, one of the world's premier research organizations focused on cancer therapies and drug development, will expand Yale's renowned experience in cancer innovation and provide our patients access to the newest cancer therapies available," said Dr. Thomas Lynch, Jr., director of YCC and physician-in-chief of Smilow Cancer Hospital at Yale-New Haven. "This collaboration is an example of how three leading, research-driven organizations can build on their strengths and work together to quickly bring new discoveries to our clinics and benefit cancer patients."