Developmental Research Program

The Prostate Cancer Development Program is organized to attract scientists and clinical investigators to the field of prostate cancer and to assist in the development of careers in the field of prostate cancer. The program encourages collaborations between investigators with diverse skills, resulting in innovative research collaborations. Funding is available for postdoctoral fellows and junior faculty and researchers through the Career Development Program. Established investigators wishing to pursue prostate cancer research may apply for funding through the Developmental Research Program.

Career Development Program
The purpose of the Career Development Program is to assist in scientific and academic development of medical, urological, and radiation oncologists, as well as recent graduates of PhD programs. Up to two years of salary support and career mentoring helps applicants to establish a career in the field of prostate cancer. Funding is available to postdoctoral fellows and junior faculty and researchers (those eligible to independently apply for NIH funding). Successful fellows will use the funding to launch a career in academia, either as a research or clinical scientist, at the faculty level. Successful junior faculty and researchers will use this opportunity to develop a research program well supported by extramural funding. The highest priority for funding will be given to applicants who clearly demonstrate academic potential and commitment.

Developmental Research Program
The purpose of the Developmental Research Program is to provide seed funding to encourage both new and established investigators to conduct pilot projects that will launch new translational research initiatives in prostate cancer. It is designed to create a flexible means of exploring basic and clinical research for potential translational projects. The program provides funding for research proposals submitted by basic scientists and clinical investigators seriously interested in developing new approaches to prevention and treatment of prostate cancer. Successful investigators will use this opportunity to conduct the initial research necessary for later obtaining extramural funding. The highest priority for funding is given to translational research projects demonstrating collaboration between clinicians and research scientists. Translational research is defined as research involving the flow of information from the clinic or clinical materials to the bench, or vice-versa.

Additional Information
Details on both programs, including application materials and a listing of current and previous awardees, can be found on the Department of Urology website.