CANCER INSTITUTE CONTINUES SEARCH FOR DIRECTOR

(AUSTIN) — The Chairman of the Oversight Committee of the newly created Cancer Prevention and Research Institute briefed Senators Tuesday on the search for that organization's executive director. Voters approved the project through a proposition last year, that would spend $300 million a year for the next ten years for projects to prevent and treat cancer in Texas. Members of the Finance and Health and Human Services Committees heard from Chairman Jimmy Mansour that the organization's director must have a unique combination of business acumen and scientific background.

In addition to the search for a director, the Oversight Committee is generating preliminary guidelines for funding and awarding research grants. Mansour said he anticipates grants will go to projects in three categories: prevention, basic science research from public or not-for-profit organizations, and research from private biotech companies. He added that the committee will also work with Legislators to ensure that current legislation is adequate and flexible to allow the efficiency and value of the grant process.

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