09/04/2021
GloPID-R observer CEPI launches funding call to develop broadly protective coronavirus vaccines
With the emergence of novel SARS-CoV-2 variants and the threat of future coronavirus outbreaks, GLOPID-R observer the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) has launched a funding call to advance the development of an all-encompassing vaccine targeting Betacoronaviruses – including SARS, MERS and SARS-CoV-2, as well as novel coronaviruses that might jump into the human population.
CEPI will make up to US$200 million in funding available for the R&D effort, with the aim to avert another COVID-19 like pandemic, reduce the need to continually update vaccine components, and ultimately reduce virus circulation.
The Call is interested in research groups and organisations, worldwide, working to develop a broadly protective vaccine against SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern and newly emerging variants, with funding up to 18-24 months to achieve clinical proof of concept, and a broadly protective Betacoronavirus vaccine with funding for up to 4 years to demonstrate clinical proof of concept.
The ambitious effort is part of CEPI’s long-term $3.5bn investment strategy, announced earlier in March 2021.
“This will be an incredibly challenging area of work, but one with tremendous benefits,” said CEPI’s Director of Vaccine R&D, Dr. Melanie Saville.
