The Oxford-Harrington Rare Disease Centre (OHC), a joint initiative of the University of Oxford in the UK and the Harrington Discovery Institute at University Hospitals in Cleveland, Ohio, is set to launch its 2025 Rare Disease Scholar Award. This program aims to foster groundbreaking research that can transition innovative discoveries from academic settings into tangible clinical treatments.
The award specifically seeks to address rare diseases, particularly focusing on neurological disorders, developmental and metabolic disorders, and rare cancers. Additionally, proposals targeting any rare genetic conditions with significant unmet medical needs are also highly encouraged. The center's commitment goes beyond financial backing; it offers essential drug and business development support provided by seasoned industry experts in pharmaceuticals.
For this initiative, researchers hailing from the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada can apply for this coveted award. Selected recipients will benefit from substantial support aimed at accelerating their projects:
- - Guaranteed grant funding set at USD 100,000 for US- and Canada-based recipients, and £100,000 for those based in the UK.
- - Comprehensive one-year support for therapeutics development and project management, with potential for a renewal period of an additional year should initial milestones be achieved.
- - Access to cutting-edge core facilities and resources, which encompass oligonucleotide synthesis and screening, small molecule and protein platforms, as well as specialized facilities for cell and gene therapy.
- - The chance to compete for further acceleration funding, potentially reaching up to USD 300,000 for US- and Canada-based projects, or £250,000 for UK-based ventures.
- - Opportunities for qualifying projects to tap into investment funding, which can go as high as USD 1,000,000, tailored to specific project needs.
- - An invitation to present the findings at symposiums hosted by either the Harrington Discovery Institute or the Oxford-Harrington Centre.
Judging of the applications will be carried out by the OHC Scientific Advisory Council, with final selections announced in October 2025. Up to ten scholars will be awarded, each contributing to the growth of innovative solutions in the rare disease sector.
All application submissions must be completed by March 10, 2025, at 11:59 PM ET, offering an exciting opportunity for researchers striving to make impactful advancements in the field of rare diseases. More information about the application process can be accessed through the official website at OxfordHarrington.org/Award. This initiative not only aims to elevate research but also foster collaborative efforts between academia and industry to significantly enhance patient care and therapeutic outcomes for individuals affected by rare diseases.