To effectively manage the complex multidisciplinary nature of the NU-CCNE and ensure that trans-center and trans-Alliance opportunities are optimized, a multiple PI or Co-Director mechanism was utilized.

Chad A. Mirkin, PhD and Steven T. Rosen, MD are Co-Directors of the NU-CCNE and share the authority and responsibility for leading and directing the project intellectually and logistically. Drs. Mirkin and Rosen bring extensive knowledge, skill, and experience to the enterprise, as well as four years working together successfully to manage the phase 1 NU-CCNE.

As Director of the International Institute for Nanotechnology (IIN), Dr. Mirkin will provide the necessary expertise in nanotechnology to ensure the full integration of project activities toward clinical applications. The IIN will serve as a source of new ideas, technologies, and investigators that will continuously invigorate the NU-CCNE.

As Director of the Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Dr. Rosen will provide the clinical expertise necessary to guarantee the close alignment of the clinical oncology scientists with the physical scientists of the NU-CCNE and expedite the dissemination of research breakthroughs throughout the cancer community.

Drs. Mirkin and Rosen work with the Center Steering Committee (CSC) to review, refine, and redirect program objectives, serve on the Alliance Coordinating and Governance Committee, and work closely to implement all scientific and policy decisions, and facilitate and ensure the integration of the Center's component programs.

Other key members of the internal leadership team include: Gayle Woloschak, Deputy Director of the NU-CCNE; and Kathleen A. Cook, Director of Operations for the NU-CCNE and Director of Operations and Strategic Initiatives for the IIN.

The organizational structure of the NU-CCNE includes the Executive Committee, the Center Steering Committee, and the Technology Council. The roles of each of these groups is described below.

executive Committee
This committee consists of the Co-Directors,, Deputy Director, Director of Operations,, Project Leaders, Core Leaders, and Co-Directors of the Education/Training and Outreach programs. The Executive Committee meets monthly to discuss matters pertinent to the achievement of program goals and realization of translational objectives; the operation of the Cores and their effective utilization; shared facilities needs; selection and the implementation of pilot projects; and development of intra- and inter-Alliance collaborations, including potential Alliance Challenge Projects. The recommendations of the Center Steering Committee are implemented by the Executive Committee.

CENTER STEERING COMMITTEE (CSC)
The CSC consists of nationally recognized business and scientific advisors, a public/advocate representative, and member of the National Cancer Institute. This group meets once a year and functions as a source of guidance and strategy for the NU-CCNE. The committee uses a time-limited phase review process in project evaluation, which includes both activity-based and time-based checkpoints. If specific milestones that require decisions on project direction are reached within a set time frame, the project is reviewed. If the project reaches the time limit without achieving the milestones, the project is still reviewed for technical viability and direction.

CCNE Technology Council
The Technology Council is comprised of nationally recognized business and scientific leaders in nanotechnology, imaging, and early diagnostics in cancer research. The Council meets annually, to evaluate and provide objective advice about the CCNE’s goals and objectives and to review the status of the research projects, use of shared research core facilities, and administrative operations. After the meeting, tthe Council works with the CSC to develop a written report for the NU-CCNE Co-Directors and members of the Executive Committeer. In addition to the annual meeting, Council members are available to the Directors on an ad hoc basis for discussion and guidance about specific issues that may arise