Research & Innovation
Partnering to Transform T1D Care
At the Kopp Foundation, we believe that accelerating breakthroughs in Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) care requires bold research, clinical collaboration, and youth-driven innovation. We are creating a new kind of ecosystem—where scientists, engineers, and physicians work alongside student inventors and young patient advocates to deliver real-world impact.
We invite healthcare providers, researchers, and biotech developers to partner with us in shaping the future of T1D detection, treatment, and equity.
🔬 Research Vision: Youth-Inclusive, Equity-Driven Innovation
Our vision is to fund and support interdisciplinary research that improves lives—especially for young T1D patients facing high barriers to care.
Our long-term goal is to become a global grant-making hub by 2027. Until then, we co-create and support pilot projects that:
- Advance non-invasive glucose monitoring
- Explore stem cell therapy and beta-cell regeneration
- Improve AI-powered early detection for high-risk youth
- Reduce disparities in device access and care outcomes
We are particularly interested in research that engages youth in co-design, testing, and storytelling.
đź“Ś Key Areas of Collaboration
Non-Invasive Glucose Monitoring
We partner with engineering labs and startups building wearable optical sensors and smart patches. Projects that demonstrate safety, affordability, and scalability are prioritized.
Regenerative & Gene Therapies
We support translational work on beta-cell reprogramming, encapsulation technologies, and T1D immunotherapies. We’re eager to fund early-stage collaborations and host trials in youth-centered care settings.
AI & Digital Diabetes Tools
We co-develop platforms that use predictive analytics to forecast hypo/hyperglycemia in teens and inform lifestyle-based interventions. Priority is given to tools that integrate mental health and peer support.
T1D Health Equity Studies
We champion studies that measure gaps in CGM or insulin access across race, income, and geography—and test scalable solutions. We also fund behavioral science pilots that improve adherence among marginalized youth.
🤝 How to Partner With Us
- Submit a proposal to join an existing research pilot (Philadelphia-based or remote)
- Apply to host a Kopp Youth Innovation Fellow in your lab or institution
- Collaborate on a grant submission or clinical trial activation
- Speak at one of our youth-led research symposia or mentorship events
We provide visibility, funding support, data resources, and access to our T1D youth network.
đź“Š Data & Analytics Initiatives
Our data science strategy focuses on:
- Building predictive risk models from school-based screening data
- Integrating mental health indicators into pediatric T1D dashboards
- Using natural language processing to track disparities in electronic medical records
- Promoting privacy-preserving research access for student-led projects
Training & Education for Providers
Starting in 2026, we will launch:
Emerging Therapy Training modules for endocrinologists and diabetes educators, Youth-Centered Care Certification for school nurses and pediatric teams, Fellowships and microgrants for medical students interested in pediatric endocrinology
Teaching With Youth, Not Just For Them
Our innovation model centers youth—not just as beneficiaries, but as contributors. Every pilot project is paired with a youth research fellow, design feedback group, or storytelling team. Their insights are not an afterthought—they shape direction, improve usability, and strengthen equity outcomes.
“Collaboration is not just about labs and data—it’s about building with those who live with T1D every day.”
