UNM Comprehensive Cancer Center Joins Caris Precision Oncology Alliance

The addition of UNM to the Caris Precision Oncology Alliance (POA) connects the state’s only National Cancer Institute-designated center with a vast network of academic and research institutions. By integrating molecular science with clinical expertise, the collaboration focuses on improving patient outcomes through shared data and innovative treatment strategies. UNM, which serves approximately 65% of New Mexico's cancer patients, will now contribute to a research database that has already produced over 800 investigator-initiated publications.

James Hamrick, Chairman of the Caris POA, noted that the partnership leverages real-world evidence to refine precision medicine. For UNM, the move provides access to high-performance computing and AI-driven diagnostic tools designed to tailor therapies to individual patient needs. Bernard Tawfik, medical director of the UNM Clinical Research Office, emphasized that the alliance aligns with the center’s broader mission to advance cancer science and offer cutting-edge care to diverse communities.