Transatlantic Demonstration of CIT Technology Signals Huge Leap in Scientific Collaboration

Alan S. Graeff, Director, CIT

CIT computer scientists have been collaborating with scientists at NCI for several years to develop technology that permits long distance transmission of medical-quality images and promotes collaboration by scientists at widely separated geographic locations.

On November 13, 2002, a three-way TeleSynergy® conference was held between Cancer Centers in Dublin and Belfast, and the National Cancer Institute in Bethesda, MD. Scientists at NCI, along with their counterparts in Dublin and Belfast, used the TeleSynergy® technology to seamlessly transmit medical data and images simultaneously between these centers, allowing the participants to collaborate on three separate clinical case presentations.

A large U.S. delegation—including DHHS and NIH dignitaries, industry executives, and members of academia—was present for the demonstration in Dublin. Although DHHS Secretary Tommy Thompson had to cancel at the last minute, NIH Director Dr. Elias Zerhouni and NCI Director Dr. Andrew von Eschenbach were on hand to witness and participate in this highly successful display of technological and medical collaboration.