Clinical Biomarkers
Purpose and scope
This scheme supports the identification, validation, and implementation of clinical biomarkers that bring us closer to an early and accurate diagnosis, and/or inform the management of brain tumours.
Studies may make use of the samples and infrastructure brought about by funded clinical trials, to go beyond the primary and secondary endpoints and generate new knowledge around clinical biomarkers.
Funding
Up to £100,000 per year for up to five years can be requested.
Eligibility criteria
- Applications must include a Clinical Lead and a Scientific Lead
- Both the Clinical Lead and Scientific Lead must hold an employment contract beyond the period of the grant
- All applications must address the issue of earlier and accurate diagnosis, as highlighted in our research strategy 'A Cure Can't Wait'
- This award is open to international researchers but all proposals must demonstrate how they can benefit patients in the UK health system
- If the proposed research makes use of the infrastructure and/or samples already in use for a funded trial, the funding obtained may not be used for the purposes of achieving the primary or second endpoints of the trial.
- All applications must have input from those affected by brain tumours as early as possible, preferably during scoping of the project
Public and patient involvement
To obtain input from those affected by brain tumours, we strongly recommend that applicants access our Research Involvement Network (RIN) for public and patient involvement. In order to receive feedback from the RIN, please allow for a minimum of 3 weeks turnaround time.
Key Dates
2018 Grant call
Call open: 25 June 2018
Application deadline: 03 September 2018
Funding decision: 11 March 2019
2019 Grant call
Call open: 07 January 2019
Application deadline: 18 March 2019
Funding decision: September 2019
Assessment criteria
- Methodology
Projects must have a sound approach and methodology in order to address the questions raised. Proposals that make use of the infrastructure and/or samples, already in use for a funded trial, are strongly encouraged - Statistical validity
Projects must be statistically powered so results are significant and meaningful - Expertise of applicants
The applicants must be appropriately trained and well suited to carry out the planned studies - Potential for patient benefit
Projects must articulate a clear pathway leading to patient benefit as well as the anticipated impact and likelihood of achieving an early and accurate diagnosis. Applications with a clear path to clinical or practical application will be strongly favoured. Applicants must demonstrate how their findings will be taken up and funded by the NHS following The Charity's investment - Value for money
Projects must demonstrate that the funds requested are essential for the work and how these represent value for money
Please read the following documents before applying for funding
Grand conditions - PDF
These grant conditions, together with the grant award letter, set out the terms and conditions on which we make a grant to the host institution and grantholder.
Finance guidelines - PDF
These guidelines explain which of the costs incurred will be paid for by The Charity
Data protection statement - PDF
This statement details how the information you give us will be processed, used and stored in accordance with data protection legislation
Guidance document - PDF
Please take note of, and allow sufficient time for, the approval steps required to complete the submission process. We cannot guarantee late submissions will be accepted.
Application Process
Applications must be submitted online through our Grant Management Portal:
Further information
If you would like to discuss project ideas or need any information, please contact the Research Team.
E-mail: research@thebraintumourcharity.org
Phone: +44 (0) 1252 418190
