Fall 2025
By Hannah White Hannah
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute has received nearly $800,000 in support from the Massachusetts Life Sciences Center (MLSC) to advance cancer research and workforce development. This funding supports two pivotal initiatives focused on access and equity: the Continuing Umbrella Research Experiences (CURE) Program and a groundbreaking project in novel therapeutics delivery.
Eric Smith, MD, PhD received a $750,000 grant for his work in novel therapeutics delivery. Working in partnership with Massachusetts clinical-stage biotechnology company, Strand Therapeutics, the team, which includes a postdoc hired specifically for this project, has been working together to optimize an RNA approach for chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) delivery in patients, aiming to transform cancer immunotherapy. Such an approach could circumvent the resource-intensive manufacturing processes deployed in current CAR therapies, thereby making advanced CAR therapies more accessible to underserved populations and patients with rare cancers. The project promises to enhance accessibility, speed, and efficacy of treatment, offering hope to those who lack access to tertiary care centers.
Kirk Taylor, MD, President and CEO of MLSC, said, “If successful, this project will revolutionize cancer treatment accessibility, offering rapid and cost-effective solutions to patients in need. We are proud to support Dana-Farber’s innovative work that aligns with our mission to advance life sciences and improve patient outcomes.”
The MLSC Novel Therapeutics Delivery program fosters collaboration across engineering, biology, chemistry, and medicine, addressing complex challenges in therapeutic delivery. With this funding, Dana-Farber is poised to make significant strides in cancer research, offering hope to patients and communities worldwide.
“If successful, this project will revolutionize cancer treatment accessibility, offering rapid and cost-effective solutions to patients in need. We are proud to support Dana-Farber’s innovative work that aligns with our mission to advance life sciences and improve patient outcomes.”
Kirk Taylor, MD, President and CEO of MLSC
Karen Burns White, deputy associate director of Dana-Farber/Harvard Cancer Center Community Engagement and Outreach, received more than $43,000 for the 2024 CURE Program. This initiative provides student intern stipends, fostering the next generation of researchers committed to health equity and reducing the inequitable burden of cancer. Burns White emphasizes the importance of early exposure and engagement to all levels of cancer research and care. MLSC has been a dedicated partner to the CURE Program, broadening opportunities for students across Massachusetts and helping to ensure a future healthcare workforce of well-prepared, highly skilled, and diverse candidates. The MLSC has provided over $130,000 to support a total of 37 internships since 2018.