Investigator Sponsored Studies
Vertex Pharmaceuticals funds investigator-led research advancing science and care in cystic fibrosis, sickle cell disease, beta thalassemia, IgA nephropathy, and pain.
Funder: Vertex Pharmaceuticals
Due Dates: Rolling (Cystic Fibrosis, Pain, IgA Nephropathy) | Next cycle opens 2026 (Beta Thalassemia, Sickle Cell Disease, CF Research Innovation Awards, Vertex Innovation Awards, Circle of Care)
Funding Amounts: No strict cap for ISS; up to $750,000 over 3 years (CF Research Innovation/Innovation Awards); up to $125,000 over 2 years (CF Mentored Awards); 35% max overhead guideline.
Summary: Supports independent investigator-led research advancing knowledge and care for serious diseases, especially cystic fibrosis, sickle cell disease, beta thalassemia, IgA nephropathy, and pain.
Key Information: Rolling submissions for CF, pain (US only), and IgAN; RFP-only for beta thalassemia and sickle cell; strict eligibility and budget guidelines.
Description
Vertex Pharmaceuticals’ Investigator Sponsored Studies (ISS) program funds independent, investigator-led research that advances scientific understanding and patient care in serious diseases aligned with Vertex’s clinical interests. Focus areas include cystic fibrosis (CF), beta thalassemia, sickle cell disease, IgA nephropathy (IgAN), and pain (US only). The program supports clinical, observational, and nonclinical studies, encouraging proposals that address unmet needs and foster innovation. In addition to the general ISS, Vertex offers highly competitive annual awards for CF researchers, including the CF Research Innovation Awards and Vertex Innovation Awards, which provide substantial multi-year funding.
