Merck Schistosomiasis Research Grant winners announced
Fast funding for scientists
Merck is dedicated to accelerating innovation and advancing science for most neglected populations. That’s why they want to catalyze research in an open innovation spirit as well as reduce the financial hurdles. Merck has invited pre-clinical researchers in the field of schistosomiasis to apply to their fast-funding program: the Merck Schistosomiasis Research Grant Initiative. The Call for Proposal closed on October 31, 2021.
Pre-clinical researchers in the field of schistosomiasis applied mainly from endemic and/or low- and middle-income countries. Over 200 expression of interests and about 100 applications have been received and evaluated by Merck's Selection Committee.
15 projects have been selected considering a holistic approach spanning from drug resistance, drug discovery, immunology, diagnostics and vector surveillance. Winners benefit from financial support in the form of a grant of 30,000 Euro. They also keep all rights to results and their respective IP.
This initiative will generate tangible data: it will advance research and development for innovative treatments, sensitive diagnostics and local scientific know-how mainly in Africa in line with Merck's integrated strategy and approach towards schistosomiasis elimination.