Innovator Awards in Chromosome Repair and Gene Therapy
The Cri du Chat Research Foundation is pleased to announce that they are accepting a Letter of Interest from applicants for its inaugural awards. Cri du Chat Syndrome is a rare developmental disorder caused by spontaneous breakage of short arm of Chromosome 5, leading to haploinsufficency of a cluster containing dozens of genes. The Cri du Chat Research Foundation Award supports research on novel approaches to the repair of chromosomes with an eye on approaches towards future therapeutics. The foundation particularly encourages researchers from other chromosomal deletion syndromes to apply, as well as innovative proposals from disciplines that might fall outside molecular biology/genetics, including nanotechnology and computational biology. Please note that while future RFAs may focus on the roles of individuals genes within the breakage locus on developmental and physiological processes, the initial Innovator awards will not be focused on this topic.
Eligibility: Applicants must have a PhD, MD or DVM and should hold the rank of assistant professor at a research University/Institute or the equivalent. With the exception of newly appointed investigators, applicants should be able to demonstrate a track-record of successfully obtaining funding and a robust research program. The Foundation seeks to fund the most innovative research and is not restricted by nationality or citizenship.
Awards terms: Awards will be $100K/2 years
To be considered, please submit a one-page letter containing a summary of the proposed research, along with the Principle Investigator’s C.V. as a PDF to JLeston@criduchatresearch.org
Timeline :
· Letters of Interest due: September 15th, 2021
· Select candidate Invited to submit full applications: October 15th, 2021
· Awardees notified: January 15th, 2022
· Start Date: March 1st, 2022
About the Cri du Chat Foundation:
The Cri du Chat Research Foundation is a non-profit organization that was founded in July 2014. The foundation’s goal is to lead and support the advancement of translational research which could impact the lives of those living with the rare disorder, Cri du Chat Syndrome. The Foundation was initiated by JC and Megan Leston who were inspired by their son, Liam (diagnosed in October 2013), and continues to grow through the many families, advocates, and professionals answering their call for research to help raise the bar for this rare disease.