Interns Explore Oncology Research in New Program at The University of Kansas Cancer Center

As part of its commitment to growing the future cancer research workforce, The University of Kansas Cancer Center launched the Clinical Oncology Research Internship (CORI), a program designed to introduce recent college graduates to the world of early-phase clinical trials.

These trials, the first step in testing new cancer treatments in humans, focus on safety, dosage and how the body responds to investigational therapies. CORI interns work alongside leading researchers and clinicians at the KU Clinical Research Center, which is funded by JCERT.

Tobin Wise, one of the program’s inaugural interns, graduated in May 2025 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. He is applying to medical school and hopes to start in the summer of 2026. We spoke with him about his CORI experience and how it’s shaping his future.

What inspired you to apply to CORI?
I wanted to take a gap year between finishing my undergraduate degree and beginning medical school, but I was not exactly sure what I wanted to do during that time. After thinking about how I could improve my curriculum vitae and medical school application, I realized I was lacking research experience. I began searching for research opportunities and came across the CORI program at The University of Kansas Cancer Center. It seemed like the perfect opportunity for me to gain research experience and learn about clinical trials and the field of oncology.

How did you become involved in oncology research?
Other than some biochemistry research I participated in during my undergraduate studies, the CORI program is my first experience in oncology research. I did not know much about oncology research or clinical trials when I began the program but, during the internship, I greatly expanded my knowledge. I came to really enjoy this area of study and now see how I can contribute to advancing the fight against cancer.

What does a typical day look like as an intern?
Each day in the Early Phase Research Unit varies. My day might include shadowing an oncologist, gathering patient data, writing an abstract or manuscript, creating a research poster, analyzing data in the lab, meeting with my mentors or attending cancer center educational seminars. I had the opportunity to conduct my own research and contribute to others’ projects, and I value exploring the diverse aspects of oncology research.

What skills did you develop in CORI?
When I first joined the program, I had a basic understanding of the clinical research process, but the internship greatly expanded that knowledge. I strengthened my problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities, improved my communication skills and developed technical skills such as scientific writing and medical knowledge.

The CORI internship definitely influenced my career path. I have known for a long time that I wanted to become a physician, but I was not exactly sure which specialty I might pursue. Oncology is now a field I could see myself entering, especially in a position where I could lead clinical trials. Several factors influenced this decision, including observing the significant impact oncology research can have in providing lifesaving treatments, experiencing the field’s dynamic and intellectually challenging nature and developing an incredible professional network.

What do you wish more people understood about early-phase clinical trials?
I wish more people understood that early-phase clinical trials play an important role in expanding treatment options. Before joining the CORI program, I did not realize that cancer treatment options extended beyond chemotherapy and radiation. Many clinical trials now explore therapies targeting a patient's genetic profile and their tumor’s molecular characteristics. Learning about this helped me appreciate how these trials contribute to more individualized treatment developments.