The Challenge:  Despite its robust and world-renowned research program, the UVM Cancer Center is relatively small compared to its academic cancer center peers. As such, many early career investigators work on shoestring budgets and rely heavily on philanthropic support to fuel their investigations. PhD candidates in particular often struggle to cover lab costs regardless of the merit and promise of their research. 

One Community Member's Response:  Newly retired as Public Relations Director for the UVM Larner College of Medicine, Jen Nachbur understands the funding challenges these gifted researchers face.

She lost her mother to leukemia in 2008. Inspired by the opportunity to help fuel breakthroughs and cures, Nachbur made a gift to the UVM Cancer Center Research Fund which the Cancer Center then matched to amplify its impact. 

This philanthropic fund exists to support cutting-edge cancer research that translates into life-saving prevention, screening, diagnostic and treatment services. In 2025, the award will be granted to a single PhD candidate to cover core expenses such as bench (laboratory) supplies, graduate student stipends and travel for conference presentations, conducting interviews and collaborating with other centers.

This work is just one facet of UVM Cancer Center, a research institute, clinical care facility, educational entity and community organization grounded at UVM’s Larner College of Medicine in partnership with UVM Medical Center. Philanthropy funds some of the most promising and impactful work there, because of the commitment and generosity of community members.

To explore ways to help power innovation in cancer research, contact Ginger Lubkowitz at Ginger.Lubkowitz@uvmhealth.org or make a gift online today.