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The National Institutes of Health has renewed its designation of the University of Utah's Huntsman Cancer Institute as a national Cancer Center after a review team gave it the strongest rating in its 11-year history.
"The highly laudatory review of HCI's programs by thought leaders in cancer research affirms the innovation and impact of our cancer research efforts. [National Cancer Institute] designation brings financial resources to support further development of our research infrastructure, ensuring that we have cutting edge technologies and expertise," executive director Mary Beckerle said in a statement. "The national recognition of our accomplishments and potential for future excellence allows us to attract top faculty and additional grant support for cancer research."
The latest review ranked Hunstman in the "high impact" category, putting it in elite company among the 66 designated cancer centers around the country. Utah's is among only a few in the Intermountain West. The closest are at the University of Colorado and Oregon Health and Science University.
The Huntsman Institute, considered a world leader in cancer genetics, employs 135 faculty researchers funded by more than $60 million in external grants. Its scientists have helped identify gene mutations responsible for colon cancer, breast and ovarian cancer, melanoma, neurofibromatosis, and, most recently, hereditary paraganglioma, a rare cancer afflicting the interface between the endocrine and nervous systems.
Founded and supported with money provided by Utah businessman Jon Huntsman Sr., HCI also operates a cancer hospital.