During the course of 2023, the FERO Foundation had the honor of awarding a total of seven grants to outstanding researchers dedicated to the field of translational oncology, representing a total of €780,000 funded through the FERO Calls for Applications. These grants reflect our firm commitment to scientific advancement and the constant search for innovative solutions to tackle cancer.
Throughout the year and on different dates, we launched three calls for applications and selection processes, receiving a total of 147 proposals. Of these, 43 advanced to the second selection phase and 7 were selected. Four of these grants were aimed at young researchers through the FERO Grants, two of which were for breast cancer research projects. In contrast, the Dr. Baselga FERO Grant rewards oncology researchers with a high-impact clinical track record.
The research projects awarded during 2023 will be carried out over the next 2 or 3 years at centers of research excellence in the autonomous communities of Madrid, Catalonia, and Navarre. Two of the winning projects will focus on childhood cancer, two on breast cancer, one on lung cancer, and the other two will address discoveries with potential applicability to multiple types of cancer (pan-cancer studies).
The main objectives of these projects include understanding cancer biology and its microenvironment, developing new therapies, and identifying biomarkers that allow for more effective treatment for patients. To achieve these goals, samples obtained from patients during clinical trials will be used, allowing for gene editing, proteomics, transcriptomics, and secretome experiments. The molecular results will be associated with clinical survival data and medical history, enabling the creation of new hypotheses that can be addressed both in the laboratory and in clinical trials.
Each of the grants awarded has been meticulously selected for its potential to positively impact the understanding, treatment, and eventual cure of various forms of cancer. We deeply appreciate the generosity of our donors and the collaboration of partner institutions, as it is thanks to their support that we have been able to back high-impact research projects throughout Spain.
It is essential to highlight that each of these research projects represents a tangible hope for those fighting cancer. Your continued support is fundamental to driving progress in this crucial field of medicine and to providing hope to those facing this disease.
On behalf of our organization and all those whose lives will benefit from your generosity, we wish to express our most sincere gratitude for your commitment and unwavering support.
