Research
Investing in New Zealand-based research to improve prevention, detection, treatment, and outcomes for bowel cancer.
Bowel Cancer New Zealand is committed to funding high-quality bowel cancer research in Aotearoa New Zealand. We believe that local research is essential to improving outcomes for New Zealanders, addressing health equity, and ensuring our population has access to the latest evidence-based care.
Through partnerships with universities, hospitals, and research institutions, we fund studies that have the potential to make a real difference in how bowel cancer is prevented, detected, and treated in this country.
Current research priorities
Our research funding is guided by strategic priorities that reflect the most pressing needs in bowel cancer care in Aotearoa.
Early detection & screening
Improving participation in the National Bowel Screening Programme, developing better screening tools, and identifying barriers to uptake – particularly among Maori, Pacific, and underserved communities.
Health equity
Addressing disparities in bowel cancer outcomes across ethnic groups and regions. Maori and Pacific peoples experience higher incidence and lower survival rates – research into why and how to close the gap is critical.
Treatment & outcomes
Supporting clinical research into new and improved treatment approaches, including surgical techniques, chemotherapy protocols, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy for bowel cancer.
Survivorship & quality of life
Understanding the long-term impacts of bowel cancer treatment and improving quality of life for survivors, including physical, psychological, and social wellbeing.
Prevention & risk reduction
Investigating modifiable risk factors, genetic predisposition, and population-level strategies to reduce bowel cancer incidence in New Zealand.
Data & population health
Using New Zealand health data to understand trends, identify high-risk groups, and evaluate the effectiveness of screening and treatment programmes.
Past funded research
Bowel Cancer New Zealand has invested over $1 million in bowel cancer research in New Zealand. Our funded projects span prevention, treatment, survivorship, and health equity.
Bowel cancer screening participation among Maori and Pacific communities
University of Auckland
A study investigating barriers to bowel screening uptake and developing culturally appropriate strategies to improve participation rates.
Biomarkers for early detection of colorectal cancer
University of Otago
Research into blood-based biomarkers that could complement or improve on the current faecal immunochemical test (FIT) used in screening.
Quality of life after bowel cancer surgery
Auckland City Hospital
A longitudinal study tracking physical and psychological outcomes for bowel cancer patients following surgical treatment.
Genomic profiling of colorectal tumours in NZ populations
Christchurch Hospital / University of Otago
Characterising the genetic profiles of bowel cancers in New Zealand to identify population-specific mutations and inform targeted treatment.
This is a selection of funded projects. A full list of funded research is published in our annual impact report.
How to apply for research funding
Bowel Cancer New Zealand invites applications from New Zealand-based researchers working on projects related to bowel cancer prevention, detection, treatment, or survivorship.
Check eligibility
Applicants must be affiliated with a New Zealand university, hospital, or research institution. Projects must focus on bowel cancer and align with our research priorities.
Submit an expression of interest
Contact us with a brief outline of your proposed research, including objectives, methodology, budget, and timeline.
Review & approval
Expressions of interest are reviewed by our Research Advisory Committee. Shortlisted applicants will be invited to submit a full proposal for independent peer review.
Research needs your support
Every dollar donated helps fund life-saving research into bowel cancer prevention, detection, and treatment in Aotearoa.