• Diabetes Vaccine Development Centre (DVDC) is interested in projects aimed at developing products entering preclinical and clinical development stages.
• DVDC is also interested in projects that are still in the final stages of research leading to the definition of a novel product.
• To be considered, the project needs to be clearly defined and perceived as being no more than 2 years from commencing clinical studies.
• Documentation outlining the assessment criteria and submission process can be downloaded here.
• While DVDC accepts brief proposals from organisations worldwide at any time, it specifically calls for Expressions of Interest (EoIs) twice a year.  In 2006 the calls for EoIs will be in May and September.

Criteria for DVDC projects

The DVDC will assess proposals according to the following criteria:

• Likelihood of a candidate immunotherapeutic generating clinical data within 3-5 years.
• Suitability of the product to be developed commercially.
• Clearly defined product description.
• Current (if any) and proposed funding support for the project.  DVDC funding can be for a variable duration and will be performance- and milestone-based.

Other important issues are:

• Solid evidence of efficacy in relevant animal modes (preferably more than one)
• Data from studies providing sound rationale for mechanism of action
• Safety profile acceptable for clinical development
• Clearly defined intellectual property situation
• Innovative approach 
• Likely cost of production budget (please indicate currency used)
• Proposed arrangements for ethical clearances
• Expertise and experience of personnel involved.

Information on the submission of projects to DVDC can be downloaded here.