Advancing Cancer Research Through Oncology Advanced Practitioner Engagement
By @Erin Pierce, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, HonorHealth Research Institute
As we all know, oncology advanced practitioners (APs) are indispensable members of the cancer care team. Our roles span the entire oncology care continuum: managing complex treatment plans, addressing acute symptoms, and providing essential supportive care. Through close, sustained relationships with patients and families, we pride ourselves in bringing a patient-centered perspective to every facet of care. This trust and proximity uniquely positions us to contribute meaningfully to patient-centered research initiatives.
Yet, despite our potential and published recognition of value over the past decade, oncology APs still encounter barriers to participating in research. Some identified barriers include limited access to research training and methodology, as well as inadequate mentorship. The good news? These challenges are entirely solvable—and now is the time to take action.
Changing the Conversation: What Can Oncology APs Do in Research?
One of the more common misconceptions is that APs aren’t involved in research—or worse, can’t be. I’ve personally been asked countless times what my role is in research, especially by industry professionals who are shocked to hear that I have led early phase treatment clinical studies. Whether it be as sub-investigators or even principal investigators, we bring immense value to all types of cancer trials, including diagnostic, supportive care, cancer care delivery, screening, and treatment trials.
As clinicians trained with a holistic, patient-centered lens, we assess not just the disease but the person behind it. We are natural educators and advocates, helping patients feel confident and informed about participating in trials. Using these skills, we can work alongside physicians, research coordinators, and interdisciplinary teams to ensure protocol adherence, confirm eligibility, coordinate labs and imaging, and streamline follow-ups. We also act as bridges between departments, helping to raise awareness about ongoing studies across the healthcare team through newsletters, tumor boards, and direct communication. This enhanced engagement often translates to better accrual rates and more successful studies.
Building the Path: Education, Mentorship, and Opportunity
One of the most common questions I get is: How do I get involved in research? Where do I even start? The answer lies in expanding access to education and mentorship. Thankfully, great strides are being made. APSHO has acknowledged the need for increased AP engagement in research. The formation of the Research and Quality Improvement (RQI) committee was a pivotal moment, creating platforms for APs to engage in research-related dialogue and development, which was discussed in more detail in the last APSHO Advance. If the need is for educational offerings, mentorship programs, and dedicated research workshops, APSHO has you covered!
Other valuable resources include educational opportunities such as the Mentoring Intervention for Advanced Practice Providers (MAPP) program, which launched its inaugural year-long mentoring intervention designed to engage APPs with SWOG and the National Clinical Trials Network through direct guidance from experienced mentors. In addition to MAPP, there is an APP Mentorship Protocol that just opened through the NCI Community Oncology Research Program.
Lastly, one transformative milestone in my career was attending the Oncology Advanced Practitioner Clinical Investigator Intensive Course at HonorHealth Research Institute in February 2020. I arrived as an eager sub-investigator, unaware that an AP could be a principal investigator in early phase cancer research. Through this experience, I gained the knowledge, confidence, and motivation to take that next step—one that ultimately changed my life and opened the door to incredible opportunities. I went on to become a successful principal investigator at my institution and have continued to grow in my role as a nurse practitioner investigator. HonorHealth Research Institute is hosting this course again September 10 through 13, 2025, in Scottsdale, Arizona. If you are interested in learning more, please email
APcourse@honorhealth.com.
The Future Is Ours to Build
From protocol implementation to the dissemination of trial results at national conferences, oncology APs can and should be integral to cancer research. But if we are to fully realize this potential, institutions must invest in formal research training, mentorship pathways, and recognition of the vital role oncology APs play in the research ecosystem. Removing these barriers isn’t just about fairness—it’s about accelerating innovation, improving outcomes, and building a more inclusive and effective research workforce. We are only beginning to scratch the surface of what oncology APs can contribute to oncology research. The next 5 to 10 years hold tremendous potential for transformation. I encourage all my fellow oncology APs to lean in, speak up, and help be part of this historic revolution. Let’s shape the future of cancer research together.