Ohlson Research Initiative
Precision Health Care Delivery for Head & Neck Cancer
Who We Are
The Ohlson Research Initiative is a clinical effectiveness research program focused on head and neck cancer, the 7th most common cancer worldwide. The initiative functions within the University of Calgary - Cumming School of Medicine, the Arnie Charbonneau Cancer Institute and the Calgary Head & Neck Surgery Program.
The Ohlson Research Initiative is founded on the principles of collaboration and multidisciplinary approaches to research. Our mission is to create knowledge that will lead to personalized therapy for head and neck cancer. Translational research, by its very nature, is dependent on the development of integrated networks that link the basic and applied science domains. Of particular relevance to the Ohlson Research Initiative are the relationships with the Arnie Charbonneau Cancer Institute, the Cumming School of Medicine, the Tom Baker Cancer Centre and Alberta Health Services. These relationships, both formal and informal, are the foundation for collaboration and research excellence.
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What is the Ohlson Research Initiative?
Founded through the generosity of the Ohlson Family, we are a clinical effectiveness research program that creates new knowledge focused on patients with head and neck cancer.
The ORI creates evidence-based treatment of head and neck cancer. Our multidisciplinary environment allows all members of the team to thrive while creating and supporting innovative, patient-centered care with a solid research foundation.
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Our Mission
Developing and delivering precision therapy for people with head and neck cancer.
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Our Vision
Effective treatment for head and neck cancer, targeted to underlying tumour biology and tumour behaviour drives our research program.
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Board of Directors
The Ohlson Board of Directors is comprised of six people. Each of our board members is active in the Calgary community and they bring a wealth of expertise and experience to the table. We are very fortunate to have these busy people commit their time and energy to the Initiative.
Members
Ms. C. Avarello (Chair), Dr. J. Dort, Mr. R. Ohlson, Mr. R. Karren, Dr. T.W. Matthews, and Dr. N. Brockton.
Research Focus
Our research is focused on a number of areas, each designed to improve understanding of head and neck tumour biology and allow tailored therapy for head and neck cancer.
A bioinformatics infrastructure comprising a Quality Management Program, the OtobaseTM clinical outcomes database, a Head & Neck Tumour Bank, and our Electronic Medical Record provide the backbone to our research successes.
Tumour Biology
Understanding and predicting metastasis and recurrence
Clinical Effectiveness
Health Services, Clinical Outcomes, Healthcare Delivery
Surgical Innovation
Surgical Simulation, Surgical Training, Surgical Planning