PROJECT SUMMARY The Puerto Rico Cancer Research Meeting (PRCRM), hosted by Universidad Central del Caribe – School of Medicine (UCC-SOM), aims to bridge the gap in cancer research by addressing challenges faced by local scientists and students due to geographical limitations. As the second leading cause of death in Puerto Rico, combating cancer mortality rates becomes crucial. Limited access to resources restricts opportunities for students and researchers to attend national scientific meetings. This one-day annual conference is an essential platform that facilitates cross-disciplinary exchanges among underrepresented investigators, trainees, patient advocates, and cancer survivors. It comprises diverse sessions including plenary lectures by distinguished researchers, a cancer/survivor advocacy talk, trainees’ short talks sessions, poster and networking sessions, as well as a UCC graduate program information session. With a primary emphasis on promoting diversity and inclusion, this meeting targets underrepresented scientists and students from diverse backgrounds. Former attendees of past PRCRM editions are now contributing as postdoctoral fellows, research trainees, or residents of esteemed local and national institutions. The meeting's specific aims are: 1) To promote the dissemination of basic science and latest clinical research in cancer prevention, therapy resistance, innovative treatments, metastasis and health disparities to audiences in Puerto Rico. 2) To empower underrepresented trainees in the biomedical workforce from Puerto Rico and participating partner institutions by providing a pioneering scientific forum, and giving them a significant national venue to share their research work. 3) To strengthen networking and collaborative efforts between local and national institutions, fostering a diverse and inclusive teamworking environment for trainees, faculty, and cancer survivors. Anticipated outcomes of the PRCRM include the stimulation of new research collaborations, the development of grant proposals, trainee advanced career opportunities and significant advancements in cancer research. This initiative has the potential to significantly increase the diversity in the biomedical workforce and serve as a model for other countries with the same challenges.

NARRATIVE The Puerto Rico Cancer Research Meeting (PRCRM) is a forum to address cancer disparities by providing a platform for underrepresented scientists to share their research and research in the field. This collective effort not only enhances our understanding of cancer, but also promotes the development of innovative approaches, potentially leading to better health outcomes and reducing the impact of cancer on underrepresented groups.