In 2003, Dana-Farber mapped out a research strategic plan to promote the clinical application of our understanding about the molecular characteristics of cancer while furthering work that generates that fundamental knowledge.
The creation of cross-cutting integrative research centers addresses the steps from basic discovery to clinical application, complementing the scientific work accomplished through academic departments.
The integrative research centers participate in a rigorous process of goal setting, progress monitoring, and performance metrics. They are an Institute-wide experiment to see if this kind of results-driven strategy can be successful alongside traditional,
open-ended, investigator-driven research.