About ROCCA

Rare Ovarian Cancer Collaborative Analytics (ROCCA) platform

The Rare Ovarian Cancer Collaborative Analytics (ROCCA) platform funded by the Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance (OCRA), serves as an international network for ovarian cancer researchers and a searchable Data Gallery catalogue to accelerate research discoveries and translations through distributed and federated data analysis.

Vision, Mission & Values

Vision

In five years, ROCCA will be recognized for its transforming role in the landscape of rare ovarian cancer treatment. Through collaborative efforts and cutting-edge technology, we aim to establish a comprehensive resource hub that contributes to better-informed treatment decisions. Our commitment to patient-centricity, scientific integrity, ethical data use, and fostering collaboration will drive advancements in clinical outcomes and enhance survival for those affected by rare ovarian cancers.

Mission

To accelerate progress in rare ovarian cancer treatment by fostering a collaborative data network committed to patient-centricity, scientific integrity, and ethical data use.

Values

  • Prioritize tangible improvements in patient outcomes
  • Commit to translating research findings into practical benefits for patients
  • Uphold the highest standards of scientific integrity
  • Avoid bias and conflicts of interest
  • Adhere to rigorous research methodologies
  • Foster patient empowerment and engagement
  • Respect patient perspectives, needs, and privacy
  • Uphold ethical standards in data use
  • Ensure responsible handling of data
  • Encourage collaboration among various institutions and partners.
  • Work together to achieve common goals.

Our Team

The ROCCA platform is led by a Steering Committee comprised of members from across the world with expertise in ovarian cancer, data science, and study and network administration. The Scientific and Data Science Director is Dr. Aline Talhouk and the ROCCA Project Manager is David Yang.

The founding ROCCA Steering Committee members are:

Dr. Aline Talhouk

PhD, Director of Data Science and Informatics, OVCARE, University of British Columbia

Dr. Anil Sood

MD, Professor, MD Anderson Cancer Center

Dr. David Gershenson

MD, Professor, MD Anderson Cancer Center, International Consortium for Low-Grade Serous

Dr. David Huntsman

md, Director of OVCARE, University of British Columbia

Dr. Jackie Lang

PHD, Director of Scientific Programs, Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance

Dr. Kylie Gorringe

PhD, Group Leader and Program Head, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre

Dr. Paul Pharoah

PhD, Professor, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Ovarian Cancer Association Consortium

Dr. Susan Ramus

PhD, Professor, UNSW Sydney, Ovarian Tumour Tissue Analysis consortium

Patient Representative

TBD

The Steering Committee oversees ROCCA’s overall activities, strategic direction, operational management, funding, sustainability, and study approvals. The Steering Committee will be supported by three key committees: Governance Committee, Data Harmonization Committee, and Disease-specific Committee(s).

Governance

The ROCCA governance structure is being developed and will be collaboratively established with the network. The governance and committee structures will be reviewed and updated regularly by the Steering Committee.
Governance structure of the ROCCA platform

Coordinating Center

The ROCCA platform operates under The University of British Columbia (UBC), Canada, with members signing a non-legally binding Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).