The Pennsylvania Cancer Alliance
(PCA) organized in 1998 is dedicated to reducing the burden
of cancer on the citizens of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania by
pursuing world-class basic and clinical research to improve cancer
prevention and advance the standard of cancer care statewide. In 2002, The Pennsylvania Cancer Alliance Bioinformatics Consortium (PCABC), the first major project-based initiative stemming from the PCA, has become a model of how to effectively partner across multiple and complex research institutions to achieve a specific set of research. This unique PCABC partnership of over 80 individuals has expanded to include new partners that include private, community and academic institutions so that every region of the state can contribute and participate.
This has created an unprecedented network of researchers, clinicians,
bioinformaticians, cancer registrars, program directors and external
corporate partners - all working together to accomplish a common
mission.
The challenge of creating and sustaining an effective collaborative
relationship requires constant coordination, communication and cooperating.
The rewards are many. Pennsylvania has become known for their rich
and powerful collaborative research environment. This invites potential
new corporate partners and nationwide academic partners to come
to our table and join the process. We look forward to reporting
many of the accomplishments we hope the PCABC will achieve this
year.
Key
to a successful collaboration
Self-assessment by each participating organization
Evaluation and Assessment of progress
Organizational commitment and communication
Skilled leadership
Clearly defined vision, goals and objectives
Conflict resolution
Clearly defined roles, responsibilities and operating procedures
