RACE: RNA and Cell biology – from fundamental research to therapies
The RACE Teaming for Excellence Project elevates the IIMCB to a world-class Centre of Excellence in RNA and Cell Biology that will translate cutting-edge fundamental research into clinical applications and innovations
Our goals:
- Expanding IIMCB Research & Innovation (R&I) activities
- Training the next generation of IIMCB world-class researchers for academia and industry
- Enhancing IIMCB methodological capabilities through the development of modern core facilities
- Facilitating the implementation of IIMCB discoveries by launching the IIMCB’s RACE Technology Incubator
- Enhancing overall IIMCB science management and administration to fit new challenges
RACE to the Future:
Making IIMCB a World-Class Center of Excellence in RNA and Cell Biology
Teaming for Excellence 2022 call for proposals
Coordinator: International Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology in Warsaw
Strategic Partners: University of Edinburgh & VIB
Project Budget
Years of implementation period
RACE Work Packages:
Work Package 1: Establishment of New Research Groups
WP1 Leader: Gracjan Michlewski, IIMCB
Head of Laboratory of RNA-Protein Interactions
Objective: to reach critical mass in RNA and cell biology research by establishment of 6 new groups
Main tasks:
- Recruitment of 6 new group leaders
- Establishment of 6 new groups, including the recruitment of group members
Work Package 2: Researcher Training
WP2 Leader: Javier Caceres, University of Edinburgh
Head of Laboratory of RNA Processing and Gene Regulation
Objective: to train IIMCB staff in conducting world-class biomedical research with translational potential
Main tasks:
- Identify common research possibilitiesResearch training in RNA and Cell Biology of IIMCB post-docs and PhD students
- Training in technology transfer, leadership, science management, and research integrity
- Knowledge transfer events
Work Package 3: Development of IIMCB Core Facilities
WP3 Leader: Andrzej Dziembowski, IIMCB
Director’s Representative for Core Facilities
Objective: to build modern and highly efficient core facilities with services for internal and external users
Main tasks:
- Enhance the commercial potential of Genome Engineering and Preclinical Drug Development Facilities
- Reaching competitive edge and commercial potential of existing CFs
- Building new CFs to enhance IIMCB potential and meet the needs of fast-evolving biomedical research
- Recruitment of CF Business Manager and training of CF staff
Work Package 4: Implementation of a RACE Incubator at IIMCB
WP4 Leader: Erwin Sablon, VIB
Head of Business Development/Expert Scientist Diagnostics & Biomarkers
Objective: to establish comprehensive TT support to successfully commercialize the IIMCB discoveries
Main tasks:
- Recruitments for the RACE Incubator and IIMCB Exploitation Strategy
- Training of TT and IP managers
- Appointment and activities of a Commercialisation Advisory Council
- Exploitation plan – implementation and monitoring
- Accelerator programme for IIMCB researchers
- Training of TT managers in Poland and beyond
Work Package 5: IIMCB Science Management Upscale
WP5 Leader: Alexia Danyłow, IIMCB
Chief Specialist at the Grants Office/Project Co-manager
Objective: to develop HR activities to attract and retain the best talent, as well as digitalise science management and administrative processes; professionalise the administration for the upscaled IIMCB
Main tasks:
- Attracting and developing talent through professional HR management
- Digital transformation of IIMCB
- Efficient IIMCB administration
Work Package 6: Dissemination and Communication
WP6 Leader: Jan Piechna, IIMCB
Head of Communications Office
Objective: Proper dissemination of the project’s results and communication about RACE and IIMCB
Main tasks:
- Recruitment and activities of PR Manager
- Dissemination and Communication Plan
- Dissemination and communication actions
- Dissemination and communication training
Work Package 7: Project Management
WP7 Leader: Dorota Libiszowska, IIMCB
Heads of Grants Office/Project Co-Manager
Objective: to coordinate and manage the project
Main tasks:
- Overall coordination and management
- Administrative and financial management and reporting
- Creation of a Data Management Plan
