FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE   PITTSBURGH, PA—June 6, 2018—For decades, oncology nurse scientists have led the way in patient-centered research, pioneering new discoveries in areas of symptom management, palliative care, and quality of life improvements. To provide a professional home for oncology nurse researchers, the Oncology Nursing Society (ONS) is convening expert scientists to comprise its new Research Advisory Panel. The panel aims to guide and develop future ONS research priorities and activities.    Led by ONS’s new scholar-in-residence, Mary E. Cooley, PhD, RN, FAAN, the panel will hold its inaugural meeting in July 2018 to discuss future research plans for ONS, along with other key opportunities to ensure the Society provides a professional home for oncology nurse scientists.    “ONS is honored to have Dr. Mary Cooley leading the new Research Advisory Panel,” ONS Chief Clinical Officer, Lisa Kennedy Sheldon, PhD, APRN, AOCNP®, FAAN, said. “The scientists on the panel will provide direction for future ONS research initiatives, provide mentorship for the training and development of doctorally-prepared nurses, and support the generation and implementation of the evidence created by nurse scientists.”   The panel includes 10 scientists from across the spectrum of oncology research. The members include Catherine Bender, PHD, RN, FAAN, Bryan Weiner, PhD, Christine Miaskowski, RN, PhD, FAAN, Deborah K. Mayer, PhD, RN, AOCN®, FAAN, Barbara Given, PhD, RN, FAAN, FAPOS, Mary Gullatte, PhD, RN, ANP-BC, AOCN, FAAN, Randy Jones, PhD, RN, FAAN, Sandra Mitchell, PhD, CRNP, FAAN, Marilyn Hammer, PhD, DC, RN, and Deborah Watkins Bruner, RN, PhD, FAAN.    “The Research Advisory Panel members are a critical asset to ONS and will provide guidance to strengthen our future research mission,” Cooley said. “We are extremely fortunate to have appointed individuals who are among the most accomplished scientists nationally in their areas of expertise.  Individuals were selected to act as expert resources to implement project work such as establishing the ONS research priorities and mentorship program, identify high-priority research issues, and discuss solutions related to achieving the work of the Society.”      ONS is a professional association of more than 39,000 members committed to promoting excellence in oncology nursing and the transformation of cancer care. Since 1975, ONS has provided a professional community for oncology nurses, developed evidence-based education programs and treatment information, and advocated for patient care, all in an effort to improve quality of life and outcomes for patients with cancer and their families. Learn more at www.ons.org.   Media Contact: Aaron Borchert aborchert@ons.org