Empowering the Next Generation of Cancer Researchers

Following a successful 10-year milestone in 2023, VeloSano, Cleveland Clinic’s year-round cancer research fundraising initiative, is moving swiftly towards the future of cancer research by expanding its grants program to include junior researchers.

One of those junior researchers is Sabrina Wang, who’s research project involves developing a new way of treating glioblastoma, a form of brain tumor with poor survival rates. Her research aims to find new ways to extend survival for these patients.

“I am so excited to be one of the recipients of the first-ever VeloSano Student Grants,” says Wang. “As a Canadian citizen, is has been quite difficult to apply for fellowships, and this opportunity has been a truly incredible opportunity. I hope that with this funding I am able to help find new ways to help understand this complex disease and ultimately find new treatments for people with this difficult form of cancer.”

Previously, VeloSano grants were exclusively available to staff researchers, but this year marks a significant shift to incorporate new opportunities for the next generation of researchers. The idea stemmed from a recognition of the immense potential among graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and summer students who often lack avenues to participate directly in cancer research endeavors. Driven by a desire to empower the next generation with a platform to pursue their innovative ideas, Cleveland Clinic leadership rallied behind the proposal.

“We’re just delighted that leadership was so forward-thinking to support this initiative because we’re really involving the next generation of physicians and scientists and the biomedical research community as a whole; this is a great education opportunity,” said Justin Lathia, PhD, Scientific Director of the Rose Ella Burkhardt Brain Tumor and Neuro Oncology Center and Melvin Burkhardt Endowed Chair for Neuro Oncology Research, who was part of the team that proposed the new grants.

The expanded grants program features three categories including a fellowship postdoc award of $50,000, a graduate student opportunity worth $25,000, and summer student grants amounting to $5,000 each for a 10-week period. Recipients of these grants will embark on year-long projects, collaborating closely with mentors in their respective labs.

According to VeloSano and Grant Program Manager, Brooke Lee, competing for these grants proved to be highly competitive, with more than 50 applicants vying for funding. The selection process was rigorous, with scores often separated by decimal points.

“It was great to see the excitement generated among both staff and students during the selection process,” said Lee. “It was fun to see the enthusiasm from the staff members with mentors and colleagues getting just as excited as the students to support their ideas.”

In addition to financial support, the grants program offers invaluable training in grant writing and navigating the research funding landscape—a critical skill set for aspiring biomedical researchers. Participants not only gain exposure to the grant application process but also receive mentorship and guidance, setting the stage for their future careers in research.

Reflecting on the broader mission of VeloSano, Dr. Lathia says that by investing in innovative research and nurturing emerging talent, their ultimate goal is to change the narrative surrounding cancer.

“Cure is always in the mind, but I think there’s a real opportunity to dramatically extend quality of life as well as survival of a wide variety of these cancers,” said Dr. Lathia. “We want people living longer, healthier, more meaningful lives and with the research funded by VeloSano, I believe we’re starting to see it play out.”