It has been nearly a century since Drs. Frederick Banting and Charles Best made the transformational discovery of insulin. Since then, countless research breakthroughs have helped people with diabetes lead longer, healthier lives. Now, with unprecedented tools at their disposal, the next generation of diabetes researchers has the potential to make game-changing discoveries that will end the burden of diabetes.
But there is a problem. Diabetes research is critically underfunded, potentially driving talented scientists away from diabetes and jeopardizing progress.
That’s why the American Diabetes Association launched the Pathway to Stop Diabetes® program in 2013. Pathway is a bold, forward-thinking initiative dedicated to bringing 100 brilliant scientists to diabetes research. Through substantial, sustained funding; access to scientific and career mentoring from current leaders in diabetes research and business; avenues for fostering meaningful collaborations; and communication outlets to convey their research, Pathway to Stop Diabetes scientists are poised to become the next generation of diabetes research leaders.
Thirty-two scientists from institutions across the U.S. have been awarded Pathway grants so far. Outcomes related to the awards have been nothing short of spectacular: 120+ peer-reviewed publications, 10 patent applications, two start-up companies, and nine first-time faculty appointments.
The 79th Scientific Sessions program features 25 presentations by 19 Pathway scientists. Topics include unraveling the genetic architecture of human beta cells, the role of the brain in regulating hunger and energy balance, and approaches to help adolescents with type 1 diabetes successfully transition to self-care, to name a few. Several Pathway scientists will also be presenting posters during the Opening Networking Reception. Please join us at 6:30 p.m. Friday (West, Level 2 Lobby) to learn more about the program and the innovative science it is supporting.
The prestigious, nomination-only Pathway to Stop Diabetes program has three distinct award categories: Initiator Award for researchers in postdoctoral training; Accelerator Award for early-career diabetes researchers; and Visionary Award for established investigators who are new to diabetes research.
Applications for consideration in the next funding cycle are due July 1. For more information, visit diabetes.org/pathway.
To support Pathway to Stop Diabetes and the next generation of brilliant diabetes research leaders, visit diabetes.org/supportpathway, click the “Donate to Pathway” icon in the Scientific Sessions app, or text “Pathway” to 71760.
