Scientific Program

Funding research to stop ovarian cancer and save lives.

Why Fund Ovarian Cancer Research

Ovarian cancer is the deadliest gynecological cancer. Most people are diagnosed at advanced stages as there is no early detection test available for those at average risk. The five year survival rate for the disease is 47%. Despite these daunting statistics, ovarian cancer remains underfunded by national funding agencies. The Rivkin Center is committed to supporting cutting-edge research on the prevention, early detection, and treatment of ovarian cancer to improve outcomes for those affected by the disease.

Our Approach

The Rivkin Center’s Scientific Program serves as a catalyst for research by funding the best ideas from all over the world. Our goal is to eradicate ovarian cancer through advances in prevention, early detection, and treatment of the disease. We accomplish this by providing seed funding to researchers globally to develop innovative ideas and by cultivating a strong ovarian cancer workforce.

The Pilot Study Awards fund novel, high-risk ideas that can be developed to leverage larger national grants and have high likelihood of impacting the lives of ovarian cancer patients. Learn More
The Scientific Scholar Awards fund young investigators to assist them in developing a career devoted to ovarian cancer research under the mentorship of senior ovarian cancer researchers. Learn More
The Bridge Funding Awards provide support for researchers who came very close to receiving, but did not receive, federal funding and need to produce data to substantiate their proposal before resubmitting their application. Learn More

Together, Rivkin Center awards provide much needed support for ovarian cancer research.

5 YEAR SURVIVAL RATE
IS ONLY 47%
Nadine Hempel, PhD

Penn State College of Medicine

2017 Pilot Study Awardee

“If you’re an ovarian cancer researcher, you’ve leaned on the Rivkin Center to advance your research.”

Latest Science Corner

3 new studies show PARP inhibitors effective at delaying recurrence of disease
for all people with ovarian cancer.