The MSK Global Cancer Disparity Initiatives Program was established in 2013; the program began with collaboration between MSK and Obafemi Awolowo University in Nigeria.  It has since grown to include a consortium of hospitals in Nigeria, referred to as the African Research Group for Oncology (ARGO) for which MSK is a founding member. In addition MSK most recently established partnerships in Kenya and Tanzania.  MSK remains actively involved with training endeavors and collaborative research efforts focused specifically on colorectal and breast cancers.  With the goal of improving outcomes for cancer patients in low-and middle-income countries, The Observership Program for MSK’s Global Cancer Disparity Initiatives was created to allow physicians from an ARGO institution the opportunity to participate in a period of observation and education alongside MSK’s experts. 

The Observership Program for MSK’s Global Cancer Disparity Initiatives will benefit a qualified applicant who has a demonstrated interest in improving cancer care within an ARGO designated country. Successful applicants will be physicians who have completed residency training and who are currently practicing.  An MSK attending will be assigned as a sponsor for the observer based upon interests and learning goals.  The observer will receive a travel grant to be used toward airfare and living expenses for the duration of the Observership (6 weeks). A limited number of slots for observers are available and the appropriate candidate will be identified following a review of the completed application. 

Application Deadline: June 30, (current year for the following year)

Eligibility

• Hold a position in one of the ARGO institutions.
• The ideal candidate will be a physician who has a demonstrated interest in improving the delivery of cancer care within their designated country.
• Possess strong proficiency in English.
• Applicant will be responsible for obtaining a visa to travel to the US.
• Applicant should be able to demonstrate financial need consistent with the terms of the travel grant.
• Applicant will need to arrange living accommodations while in New York, as MSK does not provide housing for international observers.

How to Apply

Contact the International Observership office at [email protected]. 

Provide the following information:

• Name
• Contact Information (Email Address)
• Title / Position
• Specialty
• Current ARGO institution
• Preferred Dates of Visit

If accepted, you will be asked to complete an application form, and supply:

Current CV
One Letter of Recommendation
Copy of Passport
MSKCC Health Attestation Form
COVID Vaccination (WHO approved)

Program Director:
T. Peter Kingham, MD
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
1275 York Avenue
New York, NY 10065
Contact: [email protected]