The UF Health Cancer Institute has developed a structured process to assist members pursuing high-impact translational cancer research with accessing biospecimens.
The new biospecimens service will streamline the process for members to use UF Clinical and Translational Science Institute (CTSI) Biorepository services. Members can request services by completing an intake form that captures information required by the CTSI. The goal is to maximize the use of campus infrastructure in a cost-effective way, while providing easy access for members.
The CTSI Biorepository provides medical researchers with high-quality biospecimens procured by highly trained staff using quality assurance processes. Services include a biospecimen library, secure specimen storage, specimen processing services and comprehensive research specimen management.
As part of the new effort, genitourinary oncologist Daniel Araujo, M.D., has been named the Cancer Institute’s medical director for biospecimen resources.
In this role, he will provide expert clinical input and oversight of cancer biospecimen collection, clinical annotation and use by the institute’s members. He will ensure biospecimen efforts supported by the institute meet members’ needs and align with institutional priorities on precision oncology, clinical trials and community-engaged science.
“Timely access to biospecimens is essential to advance the groundbreaking science conducted by our Cancer Institute members,” said Araujo, a member of the institute’s Immuno-Oncology and Microbiome research program. “This initiative has the potential to be a true game-changer, accelerating research efforts and amplifying their impact on our community.”
Araujo will work closely with Steve Madore, Ph.D., associate director for shared resources, and Paul Crispen, M.D., associate director for clinical research, to identify research needs, form responsive plans and work with institutional leaders to execute research strategy in alignment with the institute’s strategic plan.
Araujo will serve as a member of the Shared Resources Oversight Committee, participating in standing meetings and providing input into strategic decisions. He will also participate in biospecimen oversight or governance meetings to review performance metrics, use and opportunities for improvement.
In addition, Araujo will function as a liaison between biospecimen operations and Disease Site Groups to support integration with clinical workflows and clinical trial needs.
