The Melanoma Research Alliance in Washington, D.C., has announced grants totaling $8 million to thirty-four researchers working to improve the prevention, detection, and treatment of deadly skin cancers.

In its latest round of awards, the organization made grants to researchers at nineteen academic institutions in support of efforts to develop biomarkers to predict responses to therapy and test combinations of drugs. Included are several grants that will provide support for the development of new therapies for ocular (uveal) melanoma.

The grants, which boost the organization’s grantmaking in 2014 to nearly $11 million, include seven awards through its Science Team program, twelve through its Young Investigator program, and three through its Academic-Industry Partnership program. In addition, the grants will leverage $7.5 million in investments from industry, research institutions, corporate organizations, and individuals. 

"This latest group of research grants represents a great accomplishment for MRA and the whole melanoma community," said MRA co-founder and chair Debra Black. "These grants are infused with MRA’s spirit of collaboration, reflecting geographic diversity and drawing from many scientific disciplines. We are delighted to have support from a broad cross section of corporations, foundations, institutions, and individuals. Together, we are making huge strides against this disease."