Melissa Herbst-Kralovetz, Ph.D., of the University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix is developing a non-invasive vaginal swab that can detect endometrial cancer at an early stage through molecular biomarkers. This new diagnostic is more accessible, including use in rural settings and with telehealth, and will reduce detection delays and improve outcomes for women.
Endometrial cancer is the No.1 gynecologic cancer in the United States with rising rates and a critical unmet need for non-invasive diagnostics.
Herbst-Kralovetz was one of seven researchers awarded a $100,000 grant from the Flinn Foundation Translational Seed Grants Program in 2026 for her work.
The Flinn Foundation’s Translational Seed Grants Program funds academic and medical research teams and aims to help the state improve health outcomes – a foundational goal of Arizona’s Bioscience Roadmap.
Applications for 2027 Seed Grants are accepted through Sept. 11. Apply here.
LISTEN: Why women’s health represents opportunities in bioscience research. Herbst-Kralovetz on The Commons podcast.