LUNGevity's Vision for Lung Cancer Research and Workforce Expansion
The foundation invests in a brighter future for lung cancer patients through workforce development and research.
LUNGevity Foundation, recognized as a premier nonprofit focused on lung cancer, has recently announced its support for four groundbreaking research awards intended to broaden the lung cancer workforce. These initiatives aim to enhance the lives of patients battling lung cancer.
Having invested over $55 million in lung cancer research in the past two decades, LUNGevity continues its commitment to nurturing the next generation of scientists and advancing crucial lung cancer research with the latest awards.
“Building a robust lung cancer workforce is essential, especially as the need for specialized care increases among lung cancer patients,” said Upal Basu Roy, PhD, MPH, Executive Director of LUNGevity Research. “These awards target urgent areas of need and hold transformative potential for lung cancer treatment.”
The recipients of these recent awards represent promising early-career researchers whose projects focus on pressing challenges in lung cancer research:
Key Research Areas Supported by LUNGevity Awards
These innovative projects seek to tackle significant matters, including:
- Exploring lifestyle risk factors beyond tobacco exposure
- Enhancing access to lung cancer screening for high-risk groups
- Addressing drug resistance in lung cancer treatments
- Optimizing the effectiveness of existing treatment options
Excited about the 2025 Translational Research Program Awards, LUNGevity is paving the way for substantive change in lung cancer care.
Veterans Affairs Research Scholar Awards
This unique program aims to cultivate a new generation of researchers focused on improving lung cancer outcomes for veterans.
Enhancing Antitumor Immune Responses with a Dendritic Cell Vaccine in NSCLC
Michael Oh, MD
University of California, Los Angeles
$100,000 total award - in collaboration with a generous foundation.
Dr. Oh's groundbreaking project aims to utilize a CCL21-DC vaccine to bolster the immune response against non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). His research includes a mix of innovative immunotherapies designed to enhance tumor targeting by training the immune system effectively.
Co-Designing Awareness Tools for Black Veterans
Lauren Kearney, MD
Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine
$100,000 total award
This initiative targets barriers faced by Black veterans, who experience higher rates of lung cancer and poorer outcomes. The goal is to co-create a community-driven lung cancer awareness toolkit that can be used by local organizations to raise awareness effectively.
Groundbreaking Research in Radiation Oncology
LUNGevity also honors initiatives that integrate radiation oncology into lung cancer research.
mRNA Vaccines and Therapeutic Radiation for Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Adam Grippin, MD, PhD
MD Anderson Cancer Center
$50,000 total award - alongside the American Society for Radiation Oncology.
This research investigates the synergy between mRNA vaccines and radiation therapy in improving treatment outcomes for NSCLC patients. Dr. Grippin's work is expected to influence future clinical trials by exploring effective combinations of therapies.
Addressing Health Disparities in Lung Cancer Research
Targeting Overnutrition and Obesity-based Lung Cancer
Joyce Ogidigo, PhD
Columbia University
$100,000 total award.
Dr. Ogidigo plans to explore how obesity impacts lung cancer development using innovative research methods. This work aims to provide valuable insights into mechanisms behind obesity-related molecular changes in lung cancer and potential therapeutic interventions.
Overall, these awards signify LUNGevity’s commitment to driving innovation and supporting scientific advancements that can change lung cancer outcomes.
About LUNGevity Foundation and its Impact
LUNGevity, as the leading lung cancer organization, is transforming the experience of those diagnosed with lung cancer through a multifaceted approach. Their mission focuses not only on scientific research but also on advocacy and community engagement.
- Through research, LUNGevity adopts innovative strategies to diagnose lung cancer at earlier stages, develop new treatments, and sustain a diverse pool of researchers dedicated to lung cancer.
- Through advocacy, the foundation collaborates with various stakeholders to ensure equitable access to lung cancer screenings and treatments.
- Through community, LUNGevity connects and supports people affected by lung cancer, ensuring they receive the best possible care and guidance.
With resources such as a patient-centric website, support helpline, and survivor conferences, LUNGevity helps to realize the vision of a world in which no one succumbs to lung cancer. Their dedication has earned them recognition as a four-star Charity Navigator organization.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main goals of LUNGevity's research awards?
LUNGevity's research awards aim to enhance the lung cancer workforce, promote innovative research, and ultimately transform patient care for lung cancer.
Who are the recipients of the 2025 Translational Research Program Awards?
The awardees include early-career researchers focusing on various critical projects addressing lung cancer challenges.
What type of research does Michael Oh, MD focus on?
Dr. Oh works on developing a dendritic cell vaccine to improve immune responses in non-small cell lung cancer patients.
How does LUNGevity address health disparities?
LUNGevity engages underserved communities to develop culturally relevant interventions that encourage lung cancer screening and awareness.
What resources does LUNGevity offer to support patients?
LUNGevity provides a wealth of resources, including a dedicated website, support groups, and tools to facilitate clinical trial participation.
