SSO-ESSO International Career Development Exchange Programme
The International Career Development Exchange (ICDE) programme provides support for an ESSO up-and-coming, early career surgical oncologist, with leadership potential.
Attend SSO Annual Meeting 2026 in Phonenix, AZ
Participate in a one-week clinical observership at a US-based institution
An SSO mentor will be matched to the selected surgeon with the goal that a long-term professional relationship will develop and continue over the course of the participant’s career
The programme is supported with a grant of $3000 to be paid by SSO via wire transfer at the end of the SSO Annual Meeting
Required Documents
With present and previous positions held (include dates from and to), relevant publications and presentations to learned societies
From Head of Department, mentor, or Program Director addressing the relationship with the ICDE applicant, the expected impact of the programme on the applicant’s development, and the applicant’s opportunities to share the knowledge gained upon returning home
Requested at the end of the selection process for selected candidates only
The motivation letter should include the following sections:
- Background – Provide an overview of your oncology background and a description of oncology in your region of the world.
- Specific Objectives – State concisely and realistically how attending the SSO Annual Meeting and being mentored by an SSO member at a cancer centre in the US will impact your work and oncology in your country/region. List specific objectives that you wish to accomplish while participating in the programme.
- Future Plans – Dissemination of the knowledge you gain is an important element of the ICDE programme. State how you will apply what you learn during the SSO Annual Meeting and the time spent with your mentor at a US cancer centre. Provide examples of lectures, meetings, and any other future plans you will carry out after returning to your home country.
Before applying, please read the information related to the eligibility criteria and the key dates of the programme. Applications that do not meet all eligibility criteria will not be considered.