The University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute announced a partnership with a hospital in Germany today that aims to accelerate progress in cancer research, education and patient care.

A delegation from the Centre of Integrated Oncology Cologne at the University Hospital in Cologne, Germany plans to sign an agreement at the Hillman Cancer Center in Shadyside tomorrow.

Patients in the Pittsburgh area may be able to enroll in clinical trials under way at the Centre, a leader in research and treatment of lymphatic malignancies, including Hodgkin's lymphoma, said Dr. Ronald Herberman, director of the institute and the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Cancer Centers.

Besides collaborating on research, the Pitt cancer institute will provide administrative advice to the Centre as its seeks to become the European equivalent of a National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, Dr. Herberman said.

The partnership also will involve a student exchange program and creation of a common international fundraising strategy for research.