About ACCRF

The Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma Research Foundation (ACCRF) is a tax-exempt public charity based in Needham, Massachusetts. Its mission is to accelerate the development of improved therapies and a cure for ACC.

As a rare disease, ACC faces a complex of related problems: unavailable basic research infrastructure, minimal researcher focus, and very limited funding. However, expert and coordinated action may overcome these challenges and take advantage of the newer and lower-cost technologies that are driving research successes.

In order to accomplish its mission, ACCRF implements a strategy focused on three goals:

1. Building a community of interested researchers

• Sponsoring conferences focused on adenoid cystic carcinoma
• Involving multiple institutions in the foundation's activities
• Establishing a clearinghouse of information and contacts for ACC-focused researchers and clinicians

2. Creating an innovative plan of action

• Following the guidance of an exceptional Scientific Advisory Board
• Proactively initiating  projects that conform to a coherent and logically-sequenced Research  Agenda
• Accelerating research  by contracting for deliverables within clear timeframes as well as ensuring  rapid and broad sharing of research findings

3. Mobilizing patients in support of research

• Providing quality information on ACC to patients
• Informing patients of research developments and clinical trials

ACCRF plans expansively and acts globally. Projects run the gamut from basic research through to drug screening of combined therapies, with the ultimate goal of supporting clinical trials. Funded researchers are located in the United Kingdom, China, Sweden and the United States.

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Dr. David Sidransky, (Chair)
Director, Head and Neck Cancer Research, Johns Hopkins University

Dr. Bruce Chabner,
Clinical Director, Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center

Dr. Robert Haddad
Clinical Director, Center for Head & Neck Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute

Dr. Norman Sharpless
Cancer Geneticist, UNC Lineberger Cancer Center

Board of Directors

Marnie Kaufman, Co-Founder and Director
Survivor. Mother of 4 boys. Former Development Officer for the Massachusetts General Hospital and the National Geographic Society.

Jeffrey Kaufman, Co-Founder and Executive Director
Managing Director, Senior Portfolio Manager at Putnam Investments

Tom Dilenge, Director
General Counsel, The Biotechnology Industry Organization (BIO)

Kara Gelb, Director
Healthcare Consulting Principal, GE Healthcare

Ralph Mollis, Director
Secretary of State, Rhode Island

For more information please contact us