Over the last two years, the Within Our Reach: Finding a Cure for Rheumatoid Arthritis campaign has granted almost $9 million to 30 researchers in the hopes of finding a cure for rheumatoid arthritis (RA). These researchers are studying an array of issues, from innovative research into the genetics of RA to new treatments that will more effectively manage the disease. With the REF’s announcement of the third round of Within Our Reach grant recipients, patients with RA are closer to a cure.
“There have been great strides made in the treatment and management of RA, and it is crucial that we continue to financially support RA research,” explains Leslie J. Crofford, MD, president of the REF. “We are confident that the new grantees are among the brightest and most promising researchers in their field and will play a critical role in moving us closer to a cure.”
The following research grants were awarded to 15 researchers:
- Innovative Basic Research Grants: These grants provide support for investigators to conduct exploratory research on new issues or approaches for which there is currently an insufficient theoretical or empirical basis for a competitive research project application.
- Translational Research Grants: These grants support established independent physician-scientists who are dedicated to translational research—the two-way transfer between work at the laboratory bench and patient care.
- Clinical Practice Grants: These grants will focus on issues that directly affect the quality of care in the clinical practice of rheumatology and patient access.
Within Our Reach researchers will receive over $3 million in funding on July 1. Over the life of the campaign or in total, the REF will spend $30 million to accelerate innovative research through the Within Our Reach campaign. View a complete list of grant recipients online at www.WithinOurReach.info.
2009–2010 REF Core Award Recipients Announced
The ACR Research and Education Foundation ensures the future of rheumatology by making sure that there are well-trained rheumatologists and rheumatology health professionals to provide quality care. To achieve this, the REF maintains an extensive core awards and grants portfolio with research, training, and education opportunities for medical students, fellows, clinicians, researchers, health professionals, and academic institutions.
The REF is pleased to announce the 2009–2010 core award recipients who will begin their award terms July 1. In total, the REF awarded approximately $5 million to almost 150 individuals and institutions. Visit www.rheumatology.org/REF to view a list of recipients by award.