Through our annual call for research projects within the FIGHT KIDS CANCER (FKC) programme, we accelerate innovation in the domain of paediatric cancer. Until 2023 all applications had to comply with traditional requirements such as a detailed budget and a clearly defined research plan.

To further support creativity and talent in research we introduced a new funding opportunity: the Innovation Award. It offers researchers the freedom to explore bold ideas, foster creativity, and pursue genuine innovation with potential clinical impact.

To ensure the highest quality selection process, we partnered with the St. Baldrick’s Foundation, a renowned American organisation with extensive experience in managing this type of award.

On 16 May 2024, the first Innovation Award was granted to Dr. Sophie Postel-Vinay, an internationally recognised researcher with an impressive track record of publications in top-tier journals and a strong record of conducting original research, which successfully translated into clinical trials. She has built her career between the UK (University College of London) and France (Institut Gustave Roussy). Her work focuses on innovative therapeutics for sarcomas in children and adolescents.