The Hiroomi & Setsuko Kawano New Investigator Award honours a new investigator for outstanding research contributions in the field of psycho-oncology and is an early career award. Candidates must be within seven years of active work in psycho-oncology after completing their postgraduate, fellowship or equivalent specialist training (defined as a PhD or MD or equivalent) relative to opportunity. "Relative to opportunity" considerations include that career breaks or career disruptions (see below of details). Nominators who are unsure if a candidate meets criteria should seek advice from the Awards Chair. This award is sponsored by the Hiroomi Kawano Foundation in Japan.

Dr. Haywood stands out as an emerging leader in psycho-oncology and is highly deserving of The Hiroomi & Setsuko Kawano New Investigator Award. His work has made significant contributions in two key areas. First, he has advanced understanding of the lived experience of individuals affected by cancer-related cognitive impairment (CRCI). This program of research led to the development of COG-IMPACT, the first and only assessment tool designed to identify unmet psychosocial needs associated with CRCI. The tool has already informed services across 12 countries and has supported more than 500,000 patients. Second, Dr. Haywood has contributed to improving how mental health difficulties are conceptualized in people affected by cancer. The field of psycho-oncology has long faced challenges related to psychological misdiagnosis, and he was the first to propose a viable solution through the application of the Hierarchical Taxonomy of Psychopathology (HiTOP) in cancer. This work introduced a dimensional framework that more accurately captures the complexity of cancer-related effects and associated psychopathology. Taken together, these accomplishments, along with a strong and growing publication record, active involvement in IPOS, and clear real-world impact, demonstrate both innovation and leadership.

Congratulations! Read more by going to https://ipos-society.org/awards/winners