Melanoma New Zealand Research Fund
The Melanoma New Zealand Research Fund – bolsters opportunities for impactful research focused on improving melanoma outcomes and patient experiences in New Zealand.
Melanoma New Zealand partners with Cancer Research Trust New Zealand to provide melanoma research opportunities for New Zealand clinicians, scientists and researchers. Together, we aim to improve outcomes for those affected by melanoma by funding groundbreaking research that advances earlier diagnosis, new treatments and better care for people living with melanoma.
“This is an exciting and significant area of investment for Melanoma New Zealand. The fund enables innovative and meaningful research that has the potential to shift the dial on the dire melanoma incidence and mortality rates in New Zealand and create outcomes that directly benefit patients and communities. We are committed to making a tangible difference in the fight against melanoma.” – Andrea Newland, Melanoma New Zealand Chief Executive
“We use our experience in international peer review and evaluation by our expert assessing committee to identify bold new melanoma research projects. By teaming up with Melanoma New Zealand we streamline the process for researchers and increase the funding for melanoma research without adding duplication.” – Dr Michelle Sullivan, CRTNZ General Manager
New Zealand has one of the highest incidence rates of melanoma in the world, and the highest death rate. More than 7,000 melanomas are diagnosed in New Zealand every year, and around 300 will die from it annually.
Melanoma New Zealand advocates for melanoma patients of all ethnicities, including Māori and Pacific people. Although Māori and Pasifika have a lower incidence rate of melanoma, they often have thicker, more aggressive melanomas and can have poorer outcomes. New Zealand can’t afford to be complacent in tackling this issue head on.
Melanoma New Zealand is the only charity in New Zealand solely dedicated to preventing avoidable deaths and suffering caused by melanoma. The Melanoma New Zealand team works hard to champion melanoma prevention, detection and patient care for all.
Join the Journey
A generous bequest from the estate of Carol Ann James enabled the Melanoma New Zealand Research Fund to be established. Although Carol Ann is dearly missed by friends and family, her legacy will live long into the future.
Whether you are a researcher, clinician, philanthropist, social scientist, or advocate, there will be numerous opportunities to contribute to Melanoma New Zealand’s research initiatives.
The Melanoma New Zealand Research Fund is committed to investing for the long-term and further contributions and support are needed to ensure sustainable and impactful melanoma research for years to come.
Support the Melanoma New Zealand Fund. Your donation will help fund vital melanoma reesarch.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply for the melanoma research funding?
Researchers interested in applying for funding should submit a Project Grant application through CRTNZ’s grants portal. Closing date for applications is 2 August through CRTNZ’s grants portal.
How much funding is available?
Melanoma New Zealand will look to fund one project grant in 2025. CRTNZ project grants are capped at $80K and all usual criteria apply.
Does this mean there is less funding available for other types of cancer research?
No, the Melanoma New Zealand Research Fund is adding to CRTNZ’s funds. This means CRTNZ will continue to fund as many research project grants as possible.
Are there special melanoma funds in any of the other funding categories?
No. The Melanoma New Zealand Research Fund is ring-fenced for the project grants category only. CRTNZ will continue to invest in other types of research funding and support training and education of researchers and cancer care professionals.
CRTNZ has the following categories:
- Post-Graduate Scholarship
- John Gavin Post-Doctoral Fellowship
- Murray Jackson Clinical Fellowship
- Nursing Fellowship
- Professional Development Awards
- Cancer Education Development Event Awards
- Special Purpose Grants
How will the melanoma proposals be reviewed?
Melanoma proposals will be managed in the same way as all other cancer research proposals – including international peer review and evaluation by CRTNZ’s expert assessing committee.
Is CRTNZ still funding melanoma research?
Yes, CRTNZ will retain its focus on funding all types of cancer research through the annual round, including melanoma research.
Do you fund overheads?
No, as charitable funders of research, CRTNZ and Melanoma New Zealand do not allow funds to be used for institutional overhead costs.



