The Blavatnik Biomedical Accelerator at Harvard University has issued a call for proposals for the FY 2017 funding round. Notice of intent to apply is due by October 23, 2015.

The Blavatnik Biomedical Accelerator supports Harvard faculty in conducting, developing, and commercializing their research in applied life sciences. The Accelerator helps ensure that when advanced academic research is still considered too early-stage for industry or venture investment, resources are available to bridge that funding gap. With Accelerator support, faculty researchers can develop and validate their nascent technologies and identify potential industry partners to advance these technologies toward the marketplace.

The Accelerator seeks to support innovative, investigator-initiated research aimed at extending preliminary observations, with proof of concept and the generation of robust intellectual property positions as key objectives. Examples of studies eligible for funding include, but are not limited to:

• Identification and optimization of small-molecule modulators of high-value therapeutic targets
• Development of therapeutic or diagnostic antibodies or other biologics
• Testing of lead molecules or biologics in cell-based and/or animal models of disease to confirm their clinical or diagnostic relevance
• Preclinical development of validated lead molecules or biologics
• Development and validation of clinical biomarkers and/or relevant diagnostic methods
• Development and validation of novel vaccine technologies.

In addition to supporting early-stage, highly promising biomedical technologies in research laboratories across Harvard University, the Blavatnik Biomedical Accelerator is associated with a fellowship program at Harvard Business School. Through this fellowship, recent MBA graduates gain experience in life science entrepreneurship by engaging with the projects supported by the Accelerator. The Blavatnik Fellows in Life Science Entrepreneurship take up residence at the Harvard Innovation Lab (i-Lab) and participate in business development activities, forming new entrepreneurial ventures around emerging technologies when opportunities arise.

To date, the Blavatnik Biomedical Accelerator has provided $12.5 million to support 68 research projects, approximately half of which have led to industry partnerships.

For detailed information on the Blavatnik Biomedical Accelerator and the FY17 Request For Proposals, please click here.

Learn about current projects receiving Accelerator support.