The Conquering Cancer Initiative is a scientific and philanthropic initiative at the Salk Institute. Focusing on the hardest cancers to treat, Salk scientists are unlocking foundational knowledge that will help in treating all cancers.
The Conquering Cancer Initiative is a scientific and philanthropic initiative that brings scientists from more than 30 Salk labs together to harness new strategies against deadly cancers: pancreatic, ovarian, lung, brain (glioblastoma), colon, and triple-negative breast cancer. As part of the Initiative, Salk researchers are uncovering vulnerabilities in these cancers and developing novel methods to attack tumors while leaving healthy tissues alone.
OUR FUNDING PRIORITIES
Emerging Research
In science, the most important discoveries are often not the more obvious or predictable ones, but the unexpected observations that deserve further exploration. Salk is uniquely equipped to make these new discoveries, but research funds are needed to allow our scientists to follow up on their findings and see them to fruition. By investing in these new ideas, our supporters help Salk scientists obtain the equipment, seed funding, and bridge funding needed to explore new creative strategies to tackling cancer.
Recruitment
To attract and retain the world’s top cancer researchers, we must be able to continue supporting their innovative research. New endowed faculty chairs and postdoctoral fellowships will enable us to recruit the best scientists to build the bridge between basic research and clinical application. As proven by our ongoing recruitment of senior faculty, endowments ensure the long-term sustainability of science innovation for our researchers and their teams.
Translation
Translational initiatives help us convert our basic research discoveries into meaningful clinical impact for cancer patients. To build a translational culture at Salk, we plan to bolster patentable discoveries into de-risked, valuable assets, and work with our partners in the biotechnology industry to see them through. This pipeline will be applied to the development of new cancer therapies and diagnostic tools, as well as new approaches to cancer prevention and public health.
Education and Training
To inspire the next generation of cancer researchers and clinicians, we host a number of critical training programs and symposia for high school and college students interested in science and medicine. Funds are used for a wide variety of activities, including our summer internship program that gives undergraduates hands-on research experience, and our program that sends trainees to learn and network at cancer conferences. These programs make the difference in turning an initial interest in science into a productive and impactful career.
Click here to read about the Cancer Center for Excellence
Did you know that Salk Cancer Center has been leading the way in conquering cancer since 1970? Find Out How »
2023 Padres Pedal the Cause
Congratulations to yet another successful fundraising event at Petco Park that included cycling, spin classes, 5K, Kids’ Challenge, inspirational stories, new friends, and renewed commitments to cancer research in San Diego. We look forward to Curebound’s announcement for final proceeds.
A World Without Cancer »
Cancer Research Pilot Grant Portfolio »
