An afternoon forum on Friday, April 15, brought together researchers and administrators seeking support for inquiries into understanding and fighting cancer.

The Cancer Research Think Tank was organized by the Windsor Cancer Research Group and the Office of Research and Innovation Services to identify and explain the elements of successful grant applications and apply them to specific projects.

A total of 30 participants represented seven UWindsor disciplines—biological sciences, nursing, computer science, human kinetics, psychology, engineering and physics—as well as Windsor Regional Hospital, the Cross Border Institute, Henry Ford Health System, Wayne State University and the diagnostic startup ITOS Oncology.

“We couldn’t have asked for a better turn out,” said Karen Metcalfe, assistant director of the Windsor Cancer Research Group. “The energy in the room was terrific and there are clear projects and next steps that will translate into new grant submissions over the next year.”

She said organizers hope the model will serve to generate future collaborations and stimulate ideas for further discussion. Another think tank event is scheduled for July 15.