BETHESDA, Md., Dec. 11, 2014 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network (BCAN) is seeking applicants for the 2015 Bladder Cancer Research Innovation Award. The award is generously funded by the James Family Foundation in conjunction with Partner Fund Management. The research program will award one $300,000 two-year grant to an experienced investigator who will break new ground in the field of bladder cancer. The application process is open and letters of intent are due by January 14, 2015. Qualified applicants can find more information at www.bcan.org.
The Bladder Cancer Research Innovation Award was established in 2014 to support exceptionally novel and creative projects with great potential to produce breakthroughs in the management of bladder cancer. Proposals will be accepted for creative ideas and innovative approaches that have direct application and relevance to bladder cancer.
William Kim, MD, Associate Professor of Medicine, Urology, and Genetics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center received the first Bladder Cancer Research Innovation Award in 2014 to support his project "Immune Characterization of High-Grade Bladder Cancer." Dr. Kim is investigating the role of immunotherapy in combating bladder cancer.
The award program was well received in the research community in 2014.
Seventy-four researchers submitted letters of interest. "The success of this award program demonstrates a strong interest in bladder cancer research. As an organization, we hope to increase our investment in scientific programs that identify new treatments and improve the quality of life for those living with bladder cancer," said Diane Zipursky Quale, President and Co-Founder, Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network. "We are grateful to the James Family Foundation and Partner Fund Management for their commitment to advancing science."
For more information, go to www.bcan.org or contact BCAN at 301-215-9099.
About the Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network
The Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network's (BCAN) mission is to increase public awareness about bladder cancer, advance bladder cancer research, and provide educational and support services for the bladder cancer community.
BCAN serves as the leading voice for bladder cancer in the U.S., providing resources to not only those diagnosed with the disease but their families, caregivers and the medical community united in support of people touched by the disease. The organization is setting the agenda for bladder cancer by promoting and funding collaborative and cutting-edge research programs and providing critical patient support and education services.
Each year, it provides thousands of patients, caregivers and the medical community with the educational resources and support services they need to navigate their bladder cancer journey. BCAN works collaboratively with the medical and research professionals who are dedicated to the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of bladder cancer and empowers the patient community by allowing them to share experiences with others, and to participate in building awareness of the need for a cure.