Seegene and Springer Nature have joined forces to launch 'Nature Awards MDx Impact Grants in partnership with Seegene', a new project for the development of diagnostic assays. The program empowers researchers worldwide to develop innovative diagnostic assays using Seegene's advanced multiplex PCR technology.
It marks an extension of the strategic partnership between Seegene, a South Korean PCR molecular diagnostics company, and Springer Nature, a trusted provider to the global scientific community and the publisher of the prestigious scientific journal, Nature.
The global call for proposals builds on the success of the 2023 Open Innovation Program, which attracted 281 applications from 47 countries, with 26 submissions selected. With the launch of the second phase, Seegene and Springer Nature are setting the stage for even broader participation and innovation, furthering their commitment to democratising molecular diagnostics.
This year's call invites scientists across the globe to directly propose product development ideas. Researchers are required to submit proposals featuring qualitative PCR-based analysis targeting human infectious diseases. Selected final awardees will receive significant support, including research funding of up to US $600,000 per project, as well as Seegene's provision of syndromic PCR assays, extraction assays, consumables, instruments, and relevant software necessary for their clinical research project.
The application deadline is 2 December 2024. The first evaluation will conclude in February 2025, followed by on-site evaluation and final deliberation. The final awardees will be announced in August 2025 with Nature Awards leading the submission and evaluation process. Seegene will manage overall program planning and onsite evaluations.
"We are thrilled to embark on this new phase with Springer Nature. The new programme reflects the strong global interest generated by last year's initiative." said Dr Jik Young Park, Vice President and Head of Seegene's R&D Division. "We are committed to driving the development and commercialisation of innovative syndromic PCR products that will originate from the visionary minds in the global research community."
"By allowing scientists to directly propose their ideas for product development, we anticipate expanding the range of innovation and ensuring that projects meet unmet clinical needs." said Marc Spenlé, Chief Operating Officer of Springer Nature. "Springer Nature will leverage its extensive network in the scientific community to foster robust participation and ensure the success of this collaborative programme."
The Nature Awards MDx Impact Grants in Partnership with Seegene aim to accelerate open innovation and advance the commercialisation of molecular diagnostics solutions for unmet clinical needs. Through this award programme, Seegene and Springer Nature seek to shape a future where timely and accurate diagnoses help create a framework to create ‘Funds and tech to amplify PCR for a healthier world’.
Learn more at https://www.nature.com/immersive/mdximpactgrants/index.html