**Cyprus Researchers Win €3 Million in European Cancer Research Funding**
Two researchers from the University of Cyprus have been awarded European Research Council (ERC) Starting Grants, each worth approximately €1.5 million, to fund five-year cancer research projects. This significant achievement, announced by the Research and Innovation Foundation (RIF) on Saturday, totals €3 million in ERC funding for the island nation.
Dr. Myrofora Panayi and Dr. Maria Kalli are the recipients of these prestigious grants, which are intended to support their ambitious cancer research initiatives. The RIF emphasized that this funding not only underscores the quality and international competitiveness of Cyprus’ research ecosystem but also highlights the importance of investing in research talent and excellence.
“The success of Dr. Panayi and Dr. Kalli confirms the quality and international competitiveness of Cyprus’ research ecosystem,” the RIF stated. The foundation also noted that the achievement reflects the value of targeted investments in nurturing research talent.
To facilitate the successful proposals, the RIF provided support through its VISION ERC Programme, which aims to encourage outstanding early-career and experienced researchers to engage with ERC funding opportunities. This program is co-funded by the Republic of Cyprus and the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) as part of the THALIA 2021-2027 Programme.
The RIF highlighted the impressive leverage effect of national investment in research. A modest contribution of €100,000 from national resources has resulted in securing €1.5 million in ERC funding for each researcher, translating to a remarkable 15-fold return on investment. “This represents a leverage effect of 15 times the original investment, turning a modest national contribution into world-class research funding and opportunities for Cyprus,” the foundation explained.
The recent grants further enhance Cyprus’ reputation for attracting competitive European research funding and are expected to bolster advanced cancer research in the country. This development not only contributes to the global fight against cancer but also strengthens Cyprus’ position within the international research community.
As the research projects commence, they are anticipated to yield significant advancements in cancer studies, potentially leading to breakthroughs that could benefit patients both locally and internationally. The success of Dr. Panayi and Dr. Kalli serves as an encouraging example of the potential impact of strategic investments in research and innovation in Cyprus.