Malta has taken a step forward in its contribution to European cancer research, with the Cancer Research and Innovation Hub Malta (CRIHM) officially recognised as a European Cancer Mission Hub. 

The announcement was made during the fifth edition of MedTech World Malta, where Parliamentary Secretary for Youth, Research and Innovation Keith Azzopardi Tanti highlighted Malta’s “rapidly growing profile” as a global platform for healthcare innovation.

Addressing attendees, he stressed the country’s ambition to build a strong ecosystem connecting Government, academia and industry – one capable of transforming research into real medical solutions. It was during this same conference that CRIHM’s new EU-level status was revealed, marking a significant milestone for Malta’s scientific community.

Strengthening Malta’s strategic role in Europe

With its new designation, CRIHM is now positioned to play a stronger role in Europe’s collaborative effort to fight cancer through cross-border research and innovation. This recognition places Malta more firmly within the EU’s long-term mission to reduce the impact of cancer across member states.

A formal agreement was also signed between CRIHM and MedTech World during the event. Parliamentary Secretary Azzopardi Tanti praised this development, describing it as a model example of public–private cooperation.

“Our mission as Government is to develop positive collaborations between the public and private sectors. Partnerships such as these can lead to positive outcomes for the public good, especially in cancer research,” he said, noting MedTech World’s international reputation and potential to support CRIHM’s growth.

He added that the new collaboration will help Maltese researchers build stronger, more impactful networks across Europe.

Two new funding programmes for cancer researchers

As part of the announcements, CRIHM Chairman Professor Christian Scerri introduced two new funding measures aimed at supporting researchers at different stages of their careers:

• The CRIHM Young Investigator Award, designed to support emerging researchers working in the field of cancer, and
• The CRIHM Open Access Publication Reimbursement Service, which will help cover publication fees, ensuring Maltese researchers can disseminate their findings more widely.

Professor Scerri also provided an update on EU-funded projects awarded to CRIHM, noting that these initiatives will accelerate progress in cancer research and advanced technologies. He confirmed that new EU funding applications are in progress as part of the foundation’s long-term strategy to secure sustainable backing for scientific advancement.

With its new status as a European Cancer Mission Hub, CRIHM will deepen Malta’s contribution to Europe’s fight against cancer.