Pan REX

The PAN-REX Program immerses participants in the dynamic world of oncology research within an active clinical environment. Through the One-Year Intensive Research or a two-month Summer Research experience, students gain exposure to the scientific process that drives innovation in cancer care. Guided by experienced mentors, participants explore the design and conduct of clinical studies, ethical principles, and data integrity while developing analytical and investigative skills.

One-Year Intensive Research

This educational experience provides participants with immersive exposure to oncology clinical research within a supervised environment. Under the mentorship of experienced professionals, participants engage in research activities that enhance their understanding of study design, data management, and ethical conduct in clinical settings.

Activities

  • Receive foundational instruction in clinical research, ethics, regulatory requirements, and data confidentiality.
  • Obtain exposure to multidisciplinary oncology care, including tumor board discussions and journal club activities, as available.
  • Collaborate with investigators, epidemiologists, statistical consultants, and research personnel to gain an understanding of the design and implementation of clinical studies within an oncology setting.
  • Gain supervised exposure to the accurate, secure, and compliant collection and management of study data, while learning about institutional, state, and federal research regulations.
  • Participate in abstract preparation and submission for local professional meetings under the guidance of experienced mentors.
  • Engage in original scholarly work, such as retrospective reviews, case series, or survey-based studies, with guidance and the goal of producing an academic product suitable for presentation or dissemination.

Essential Elements

Duration

This learning experience is offered over a one-year period.

Eligibility

Open to candidates who have completed a bachelor’s degree in biology, biomedical, or other health sciences and can demonstrate relevant research experience. Candidates may also include doctoral students. All applicants should possess strong analytical skills, professionalism, and an interest in oncology research.

Program Capacity

The program will enroll between 2 and 4 students each year.

Sites

  • La Casa Ciudadela Precision Oncology Clinic in San Juan
  • Oncologic Hospital Dr. Isaac Gonzalez Martinez in San Juan
  • Doctors Center Hospital Orlando Health in Dorado

Requirements

Curriculum Vitae (CV)

An updated document summarizing the student’s academic background and professional experience.

Confidentiality Agreement

Signed form acknowledging the student’s commitment to comply with privacy, confidentiality, and data protection policies.

Proof of Degree

Copy of diploma or official transcript confirming degree conferral.

Letter of Recommendation

A letter from a faculty member or supervisor confirming the student’s academic standing, professionalism, and readiness for clinical training.

Proof of Vaccinations

Documentation of immunization for Hepatitis B, Influenza, and COVID-19.

Health Certificate

Official document issued by a licensed physician in Puerto Rico and validated by the Puerto Rico Department of Health.

Summer Research Program

This educational experience introduces recent graduates to the fundamentals of oncology clinical research through a structured, mentored learning experience. Under close supervision, participants gain exposure to research operations, data management, and ethical principles while learning about institutional and federal regulations governing clinical studies.

Activities

  • Receive foundational instruction in clinical research, ethics, regulatory requirements, and data confidentiality.
  • Gain exposure to clinical environments through observation of patient care workflows and multidisciplinary interactions.
  • Observe and assist with daily study operations by collaborating with investigators and research coordinators.
  • Participate in supervised research activities to develop skills in research methodology, data organization, data review, and ethical practices.
  • Participate in supervised documentation, review, and data entry processes, with emphasis on data accuracy, completeness, and confidentiality.
  • Complete the initiative with a brief presentation summarizing learning achievements and scholarly contributions.

Essential Elements

Duration

This learning experience is offered over an eight-week period during the summer term.

Eligibility

Open to candidates who have completed a bachelor's degree in biology, biomedical, or other health sciences and wish to gain introductory experience in oncology research. Candidates should demonstrate professionalism, motivation to learn, and interest in pursuing careers or graduate studies in the health sciences.

Program Capacity

The program will enroll 2 to 3 students per year, with one student assigned to each participating site.

Sites

  • La Casa Ciudadela Precision Oncology Clinic in San Juan
  • Oncologic Hospital Dr. Isaac Gonzalez Martinez in San Juan
  • Doctors Center Hospital Orlando Health in Dorado

Requirements

Curriculum Vitae (CV)

An updated summary of academic and professional experience.

Confidentiality Agreement

Signed form acknowledging the student’s commitment to comply with privacy, confidentiality, and data protection policies.

Proof Degree

Copy of diploma or official transcript confirming degree conferral.

Letter of Recommendation

A letter from a faculty member or supervisor confirming the student’s academic standing, professionalism, and readiness for clinical training.