Hello everyone,

I am exploring research directions in cancer therapy–related neuroimaging, particularly for chemotherapy-related cognitive impairment (“chemo brain”) and outcomes following brain tumor surgery.

The literature increasingly supports both cognitive function and mental health/sleep-related outcomes (e.g., mood, fatigue, sleep disruption) as clinically meaningful endpoints. However, I’m reflecting on how to strategically prioritize these domains for high-impact publications and competitive grant applications.

I’d love to hear your perspectives on questions like:

• Is it more impactful to focus primarily on cognitive function, or take a broader approach that includes mental health and sleep, or even prioritize these aspects?
• Which domain tends to carry more weight in terms of publications and funding success?
• Does integrating these domains strengthen the scientific narrative, or risk diluting focus?
• How is the field evolving in terms of what reviewers consider compelling and fundable?

I’m not sure if there are many experts specifically working at this intersection, so any guidance or experience would be extremely valuable.

Thank you for your time and thoughts!

—Sahil