Navigating the Complex World of Oncology Research With Jamie S. Myers

Welcome to Onc Nurse On Call, the new podcast from Oncology Nursing News, hosted by editors-in-chief Patricia Jakel, MN, RN, AOCN, and Stephanie Desrosiers, DNP, MSN, RN, AOCNS, BMTCN, delivering maximum impact in minimum time.

This week, Jakel and Desrosiers are joined by Jamie S. Myers, PhD, RN, AOCNS, FAAN, a research associate professor at the University of Kansas School of Nursing who discusses her career of research in oncology nursing and shares insights on funding, mentorship, and groups to become involved with for nurses who may be new to or interested in research.

Myers began her research journey as a clinical nurse specialist (CNS) in an inpatient setting, where she initially supported physician-led clinical trials funded by the National Cancer Institute. This early exposure to the administrative and clinical side of research, including informed consent and trial orders, eventually led her to pursue a PhD. She describes this transition as a “light bulb” moment where she realized she could conduct oncology nursing research to answer questions specifically relevant to nursing practice.

Her primary body of research focuses on the cognitive effects of cancer and its treatment, often referred to as “chemo brain.” This interest was sparked during her doctoral studies when she heard a former intensive care nurse describe leaving clinical practice because her own cancer treatment-related cognitive changes made her feel she could no longer practice safely.

Myers noted that despite years of administering chemotherapy, she had not previously been aware of the significant impact these treatments could have on cognitive function. Her initial award-winning qualitative research helped define the phenomenon, and her current work focuses on identifying interventions to mitigate or prevent these experiences.

For nurses interested in beginning their own research, Myers emphasizes the importance of mentorship and collaboration over attempting to work in isolation. Reflecting on her early career, she admits she was “naive” to think she could manage projects alone and advises new researchers to partner with those who are familiar with institutional approvals and stakeholder management. This collaborative approach is essential for navigating the complex processes of various approval bodies and gatekeepers within a facility.

Nurses in rural areas or those starting with quality improvement (QI) projects can also find specialized support. Myers highlights a group of researchers who meet virtually once a month to provide a platform for clinicians to pitch concepts and receive feedback. Additionally, she points to initiatives within National Cancer Institute (NCI) cooperative groups, such as SWOG (formerly the Southwest Oncology Group), which aim to integrate nurse scientists and advanced practice providers into the research process and provide pathways for mentorship.

Acknowledging that the current funding environment is highly competitive, Myers suggests looking beyond NCI grants, which often require extremely high scores to reach the payline. She recommends exploring the Oncology Nursing Foundation, which offers grants at the $50,000 and $100,000 levels, as well as the American Cancer Society’s developing scholar grants. Recently, Myers successfully secured funding for a community navigation model to assist patients with metastatic breast cancer by partnering with a nonprofit organization, Gateway to Hope, demonstrating the value of grantsmanship and cross-sector collaboration.

Because grant writing can be an arduous process, Myers encourages nurses to seek out structured support. She cites resources such as the Frontiers institute at the University of Kansas Medical Center, which offers grant-writing classes and mock reviews to improve competitiveness. Further, the Oncology Nursing Society (ONS) has developed an evidence-based practice and quality improvement module and offers intensive programs where participants can receive feedback on their projects.

Looking toward the future of the field, Myers expressed enthusiasm for a multi-site national study led by Diane Von Ah, PhD, RN, FAAN that includes over 300 sites and evaluates the impact of computerized cognitive training on cancer survivors. This research utilizes both self-reporting and virtual objective neurocognitive testing to determine if these interventions can improve cognitive function and, consequently, patient quality of life.

In her closing remarks, Myers encourages oncology nurses not to rule out research, even if they are well into their careers. She notes that her own transition into research occurred when she was already a “seasoned nurse.” For those ready to take the step, the field offers a way to meet clinical needs and improve the long-term well-being of patients.