Pathways to Academic Success

Over the last ten years, the field of GI Oncology has seen an unprecedented growth in new therapy options for GI cancers. Due to the rapidity of this development process, a select group of GI oncologists who participated in this expansive period are recognized as expert leaders in the field, leading to a potential gap between these leaders and more junior oncologists.

There is an acute need to prepare and usher in the next generation of GI oncologists to ensure that they can take their place along side of the current experts.

To achieve this transition, it is necessary to create a forum in which these junior oncologists can build their leadership and networking skills, which are essential to successfully navigate the current career environment of academic/community GI Oncology. This process will not only allow for mentoring, but for relationship building among younger colleagues. This process will also support cohesion among leaders in the field during this transition period. If a strong network is formed, the field of GI oncology will continue to have a global core leadership group, instead of a number of individuals.

The ISGIO has created an interactive program to accelerate the journey to becoming an accomplished academic GI oncologist by providing an interactive forum to discuss the many essential facets that lead to success. The mentors are all recognized opinion leaders, whose experience and wisdom can serve as a catalyst for your success.

The blog consists of seven topic areas, with a primary goal of an active exchange between mentors and members. Topics include how to negotiate for success in the cooperative groups, industry interactions, networking in multiple dimensions for success, building long-term collaborations with your peers around the nation (and eventually around the world), how to publish in high-impact journals, and obtaining grants. Topics planned for future blogs include how to amass academic wealth, achieving success in the globalized oncology enterprise, and balancing between academic life and family life.

This is a secured site open to members only. If you would like further information on how to participate, please complete the Data Sheet and fax it to Stephanie Martin.