Specialized Programs of Research Excellence (SPOREs)

University of Pittsburgh researchers at UPMC Hillman Cancer Center lead three National Cancer Institute (NCI)–designated Specialized Programs of Research Excellence (SPOREs).

The SPORE program is a cornerstone effort by the NCI to promote collaborative, interdisciplinary translational cancer research, aiming to translate novel scientific discoveries from the laboratory and/or population studies to the clinic for testing in humans with cancer or at risk for cancer.

These interdisciplinary programs promote collaborations between basic scientists and clinicians, with an emphasis on rapidly translating research findings into novel approaches for preventing, diagnosing, and treating cancer. Learn more on the NCI website.

Head and Neck Cancer SPORE

The Head and Neck Cancer SPORE hosted at UPMC Hillman Cancer Center aims to improve treatment of head, neck, and oral cavity cancers. Learn more about our Head and Neck Cancer SPORE.

Melanoma and Skin Cancer SPORE

The Melanoma and Skin Cancer SPORE at UPMC Hillman Cancer Center aims to improve the treatment of melanoma and cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCCs). Learn more about our Skin Cancer SPORE.

Ovarian Cancer SPORE

The Ovarian Cancer SPORE at UPMC Hillman Cancer Center aims to to prevent and/or overcome therapeutic resistance of ovarian cancer. Learn more about our Ovarian Cancer SPORE.