Gerald Obinna Ozota, a CUSP Ph.D. candidate, has won first place in the 2025 Eric M. Scandrett Graduate Research Prize. This award recognizes outstanding research and academic excellence among graduate students at Chapman University.

The Eric M. Scandrett Graduate Research Prize is awarded to Chapman University graduate students who have created exceptional research by utilizing Leatherby Libraries resources. Gerald’s submission, Effectiveness of Intravesical BCG in the Treatment of Nonmuscle Invasive Bladder Cancer: An Umbrella Review, focuses on conducting a systematic literature search to identify all relevant systematic reviews and meta-analyses investigating the effectiveness of intravesical Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) on Non-muscle-invasive Bladder Cancer (NIMBC).

The panel of judges, comprised of both faculty and librarians, evaluates the essay along with the application and research sample submission, and scores primarily based on the description of the quality of evidence of the student’s research process rather than on the final research project itself.

Gerald’s paper evaluates treatment outcomes, recurrence rates, and progression of disease in patients undergoing BCG therapy. It also examines patient demographics and tumor characteristics to identify factors influencing treatment success. The research provides insights into optimizing BCG therapy protocols and improving patient outcomes in NMIBC management. The paper also addresses challenges associated with BCG therapy, including side effects, treatment adherence, and the global shortage of BCG supply.

The findings of their study have the potential to significantly impact the treatment and management of Non-muscle-invasive Bladder Cancer, offering new insights and hope to patients and healthcare professionals alike. To read Gerald’s submission, use Chapman University Digital Commons here.