Introduction

The International Centers for Precision Oncology (ICPO) Foundation is committed to advancing the field of precision oncology through the strategic integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Recognizing unique challenges in a wider clinical adoption of Theranostics, ICPO has structured a series of research calls designed to systematically address and leverage AI-based enhancements of oncology care.

More specifically, this initiative underscores the potential of foundational data curation, innovative prediction model development, and clinical validation to realize the transformative potential of AI in clinical oncology. This is a 3 year call series starting in 2025.

Call 1 (2025): Curation and Standardization Framework for Non-/Imaging Theranostics Datasets

Objective

To support the development of methodologies for curating and standardizing theranostics datasets—both imaging and non-imaging—by producing a structured database framework and annotation approach. This call focuses on the creation of data models, curation standards, and maintenance methods, without the collection or sharing of data at this stage. Any indication relevant to theranostics can be included.

Relevance

High-quality, standardized dataset frameworks are essential for the accurate training and testing of AI-based prediction models. Current funding gaps exist around annotation methodologies and reference standards. By addressing these, this call enables the development of transparent and reproducible structures that future research teams can apply to their own data locally, while retaining full data ownership and rights at their centers.

ICPO’s role is to orchestrate this process—providing in particular funding and Scientific Advisory Board (SAB) guidance, without owning or holding any data. Data and rights remain fully with the grant recipients’ centers.

Expected Outcomes

• Methodologies that enable automated structuring and annotation of unstructured theranostics data, including provisions for maintenance.
• A theranostics-specific structured format/framework that is fully annotated, standardized, and transferable between centers, with transparent access for ICPO partners and collaborators (format only, not data).
• Grant recipients in the first year will be required to deliver such a structured format, which can then be passed on and applied by future grant recipients.

Note: In line with ICPO funding rules, no hardware may be funded. While high-performance computing may be needed for future applications of the developed software, applicants should design efficient solutions that can be implemented without additional hardware costs under this call.

Application Guidelines

Eligibility and Funding

• Applications are invited exclusively from academic institutions.
• The maximum funding available per project is €100,000.
• The Principal Investigator (PI) must hold a relevant PhD degree or be an MD.

Application Requirements

• Proposal: A detailed research proposal outlining the project's objectives, collaborators, methodology, expected outcomes, mitigation plan and a budget justification (max 10 pages).
• Letter of Intent/Cover Letter: A letter introducing the research team, the significance of the project, and its alignment with ICPO's objectives.
• A current Curriculum Vitae of the PI, highlighting relevant experience, previous grants, and publications.
• Application deadline until Nov 1st, 2025