The NCI Intramural Research
Program (IRP) includes the Division of Basic Sciences, Clinical Sciences,
and Epidemiology and Genetics and provides a unique setting for a comprehensive
effort to understand and diminish cancer. With a 1996 budget of approximately
$405 million, over 2,000 scientists, technical and support staff, and fellows
and visiting scientists from around the world conduct basic, clinical, and
population-based research in all of the cancer research areas. These include
cancer biology, causes and predisposition, and clinical investigation in
the areas of prevention, detection, diagnosis, and treatment. NCI intramural
epidemiologists have rapidly provided information in response to public
concerns about alleged possible causes of cancer such as portable telephones
and fluoride in drinking water. A large number of NCI intramural researchers are recognized leaders in their fields as reflected by citations of their work by other scientists, service on editorial boards of peer-reviewed scientific journals, and the prizes and honors they receive. Many NCI intramural scientists collaborate with investigators across the Nation and around the world and with the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries to accelerate the application of new knowledge to development of products to benefit human health. In FY 1996, significant steps have been taken to ensure careful stewardship of resources and uniform standards of excellence in a stimulating environment where young people receive mentorship, training, and inspiration and where scientists at all stages of their careers are encouraged and stimulated to be creative and strive for critically important knowledge. These initiatives are described in a new, widely distributed manual entitled National Cancer Institute: Intramural Organization and Principles.
The IRP has long served as a training locus for cancer researchers in all fields, and many of the leading scientists across the country and in other nations have been trained in its clinics and laboratories. It continues to serve as an important resource to train the next generation of men and women who will carry forward the quest for knowledge that will lead us to the successful strategies that we so deeply desire to prevent and cure cancer.
