Developmental Research Program

Project Summary/Abstract Section The DF/HCC Lung SPORE Developmental Research Program (DRP) is essential to the growth and future success of our SPORE program because it is a mechanism to advance high quality, innovative lung cancer research proposals from the pilot stage to full-fledged expanded projects, including future SPORE projects. We will leverage the DRP to create opportunities for research development of a diverse range of both junior faculty and senior investigators with an interest in lung cancer and to stimulate new research ideas and new collaborations. Both basic science and translational projects will be considered. The DRP will initiate a broad call for proposals that will be circulated widely through the help of our faculty and our Governance Committee to ensure the most promising early-phase research projects receive meritorious funding. Investigators at all DF/HCC member institutions will be eligible to submit applications, in addition to some partner institutions throughout Boston. Applications will undergo a formal standardized review process, with a large committee of reviewers, to assess scientific merit, potential impact, the applicant’s credentials, and likelihood of success and progression to independent funding. Awards are intended to be two years in duration, but each project will be reviewed at the one-year mark to ensure that reasonable progress is being made prior to the second year of funding. Recipients of DRP funding will participate consistently in the SPORE program with posters and/or presentations at the Annual Lung Cancer Retreat, and regular mentoring by the DRP leadership. We have secured significant institutional funding to supplement Federal funds, allowing multiple DRP awardees per year and allowing each awardee to be supported for up to two years. The DF/HCC has a large and talented investigator group to provide a wealth of applications from which to choose, and we anticipate a robust response to each request for applications that is announced.