Applications are requested for the Stephen Voland Neuro-oncology Research Award for 2022–23.
Stephen Voland and his family went through the experience of an aggressive nervous system cancer in 2011–12. One of the ways in which they waged their fight was to fund research aimed at promoting better understanding and better treatment of CNS cancers. Stemming from their generous donation to the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, the Stephen Voland Neuro-oncology Research Award has been established to support basic and clinical research in neuro-oncology. Previous Voland Fund awardees include Dr. A. Mistry, 2018–19; Dr. Patrick Kelly, 2019–20; Dr. Michael Dewan, 2020–2021; and Dr. Silky Chotai, 2021–2022.
Eligibility: Residents, clinical fellows, predoctoral and postdoctoral researchers and junior faculty (not currently holding an R-level grant or equivalent).
Amount and use of funds: This annual award provides $6,000 for neuro-oncology research. The funds may be used for a broad variety of endeavors, including laboratory supplies and equipment, core facility use, technician support, educational and training programs including travel, and manuscript and grant preparation. Activities that support completion of manuscripts and grant submissions are especially encouraged. All funded activities must specifically relate to neuro-oncology.
Application: The application, not to exceed two pages, is due on June 30, 2022. This should include:
- Project description: background, aim, preliminary data (if available) and plan
- Brief budget
- Significance to the field of neuro-oncology
- Statement of mentor support
Review and announcement: Applications will be reviewed by a committee including Dr. Rebecca Ihrie, Ph.D.; Dr. Bret Mobley, M.D.; Dr. Paul Moots, M.D.; Dr. Kevin Ess, M.D., Ph.D.; Dr. Devang Pastakia, M.D.; and Dr. Reid Thompson, M.D. The awardee will be announced on July 19, 2022.
Responsibilities of the awardee: The awardee will be asked to present the background and plan of their project at an internal neuro-oncology research meeting in fall 2022, with a follow up presentation on results in 2024. Support from the Voland Award should be acknowledged in any related presentation or publication.
Submission: Please submit the application via email as a single PDF by June 30, 2022, to Dr. Rebecca Ihrie at rebecca.ihrie@vanderbilt.edu.