Jul 20, 2025, 09:22

Childhood Cancer Therapeutic Catalyst Award

The Childhood Cancer Therapeutic Catalyst Award accelerates the translation of discovery research into novel therapeutics for children and young people with cancer by de-risking early drug discovery opportunities through collaborative, milestone-driven projects.

Eligibility Criteria:

Applicant profile: Established independent or transitioning-to-leadership academic researchers (world-wide), clinicians or non-clinical researchers with their own lab or significant postdoctoral experience
International scope: Open to applicants at any university or research institute globally
Collaborative model: Co-development with Cancer Research Horizons’ Therapeutic Innovation drug discovery laboratories

Scientific Remit:

Projects must aim to de-risk early therapeutic leads, for example:

Target deconvolution & validation: Novel pathways and molecular targets
Therapeutic innovation: Early-stage approaches to validated targets
Assay & platform development: Screening tools for novel agents
Drug discovery feasibility: Proof-of-concept studies

Out of remit:

Basic discovery biology or target identification alone
Full hit-finding campaigns or late-stage preclinical/clinical development (GMP, toxicology, etc.)
Diagnostic technology or resistance-mechanism studies
Combination therapies or agent repurposing

Funding Details:

Duration: Up to 18 months
Quantum: Up to £250 000, awarded against go/no-go milestones in instalments
Eligible costs:
- Staff time (research/technical)
- Running expenses
- Outsourced activities
- In-kind support & expertise via Therapeutic Innovation

Application Process:

Expression of Interest: Submit the online EOI form by 31 January 2025; if shortlisted, invited to full proposal
Full Proposal Development: Collaborative call with Therapeutic Innovation scientist to define milestones and budget
Committee Interview: Mid-May presentation to internal/external experts; decisions in early June

Success Factors:

Translation potential: Robust proof-of-concept and clear patient-benefit pathway within 18 months
Collaborative strength: Effective integration of applicant’s lab and Therapeutic Innovation capabilities
Scientific innovation: High-impact discovery well positioned for further investment

Contacts & Further Support:

Therapeutic Catalyst team: [email protected] (mention “Childhood Cancer Therapeutic Catalyst”)
Explore Therapeutic Innovation capabilities & C-Further consortium via Cancer Research Horizons website