The Children’s Tumor Foundation is pleased to announce the launch of the 2017 Young Investigator Award (YIA). Interested candidates can submit their letters of intent, also referred to as pre-applications, via CTF’s online application portal from Dec 12, 2016 to Jan 9, 2017.
Initiated in 1985, the YIA is CTF’s longest running award program and provides two-year salary support to outstanding early career scientists worldwide who are interested in becoming independent investigators in neurofibromatosis. Please visit our website for information on eligibility conditions and application guidelines.
Special Focus on MPNST
While CTF’s YIA mechanism supports basic and translational research in a broad spectrum of topics related to neurofibromatosis, the 2017 YIA will have a special focus on malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNSTs). Funding for at least one meritorious application will be reserved for applicants who focus on the goal of translating genomic information into medical treatments for MPNST. Although not required, preference will be given to applicants who do not have prior training or experience in NF1 but who may bring a novel perspective to bear on MPNST research, either through unique background of the applicant and/or the mentor.
Examples of desirable MPNST projects include:
+ novel genomic approaches to understanding MPNST biology
+ novel approaches to functional analysis of the genetic changes underlying the progression to MPNST
+ investigation of novel therapeutic approaches such as immunotherapy
Please email CTF’s basic science manager Vidya Dhote at vdhote@ctf.org if you have any questions. We thank you for your interest in our award program and look forward to receiving your application!
