CRIG obtained funding to build an international thematic network on ‘Precision oncology, Immuno-Oncology and Modelling in Cancer’

In line with CRIG’s mission to stimulate cancer research by collaboration, CRIG applied for a Ghent University call for International Thematic Networks (ITN), and will obtain funding to establish the ‘PriOMiC’ network on 'Precision oncology, Immuno-Oncology and Modeling in Cancer'.

We are convinced that specific strengths, opportunities and needs are present at Ghent University and CRIG concerning precision oncology, immuno-oncology and modeling in cancer. Therefore, these subdomains in oncology were prioritized in the project proposal. With CRIG, we have already built a strong cancer research network in Ghent. We believe that the time is right to expand and strengthen our international collaborative network with experts from renowned cancer research institutes (see figure below) with the objective of strengthening Ghent University’s own capacity. Through this network, we aim to promote excellent research and education, and to generate impact for society and the patients.

The funding - 300 K EUR by UGent and co-funding by CRIG and the ITN partners, allocated for the next 5 years - will be used for the organization of (international) symposia and invited speaker seminars (in which CRIG researchers will be able to meet and discuss with the expert partners), mobility grants for researchers (research stays to stimulate collaboration), joint applications at (inter)national research funding agencies, ad hoc training courses, and other efforts to support and promote the network. As such, the funding will benefit the whole CRIG research community, UGent and other stakeholders. On the long term, this ITN network will enable us to extend our international network and build long-term partnerships.