Education

The UCSF Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center (UCSF Helen Diller Family CCC) combines basic science, clinical research, epidemiology/cancer control and patient care from throughout the University of California, San Francisco system. Designated a comprehensive cancer center by the National Cancer Institute, the UCSF Helen Diller Family CCC has the NCI's highest ranking-which is awarded after a rigorous evaluation process which shows that the center pursues scientific excellence and has the capability to integrate diverse research approaches to cancer.

From understanding normal cellular processes to discovering the underlying molecular and genetic causes of cancer when these processes go awry, UCSF basic researchers are committed to moving scientific insights forward in the context of providing the best, cutting edge care to patients with hematologic or oncologic diagnoses. Clinical scientists explore how a greater understanding of fundamental biological events can be transformed into clinical tools. New forms of therapy, as well as innovations in diagnosis and prognosis, undergo rigorous evaluation for safety and efficacy. In addition, the Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center provides exceptional patient care at five San Francisco medical centers: UCSF Mission Bay, UCSF Medical Center at Mount Zion, UCSF Medical Center at Parnassus, San Francisco General Hospital, and the San Francisco Veterans Affairs Medical Center. Finally, cancer-population sciences at UCSF includes research on the causes of new cancers, and the sickness and death due to the disease. The goal is to develop ways to improve prevention and early detection of cancer as well as the quality of life following diagnosis and treatment.

Since the late 1970s, when medical oncology was in its infancy, the UCSF Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology has maintained an esteemed educational tradition that ensures our trainees emerge optimally prepared to become leaders in hematology and oncology research. The result has been a steady stream of leaders in the field, including UCSF Chancellor Sam Hawgood, MBBS.

The Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology offers several fellowship training opportunities. Each program focuses on teaching the most cutting-edge practices related to research and clinical medicine, while encouraging fellows to take advantage of the collaborative environment at UCSF and the Helen Diller Comprehensive Cancer Center to prepare them for successful academic careers. We believe training future leaders in hematology and oncology is our responsibility and contributes to the vitality and advancement of the field. We also offer electives for UCSF medical students and residents, as well as opportunities for visiting trainees.