FAST’s Research Model
We start with the barrier,
not the grant.
FAST looks beyond individual projects to understand what is preventing promising discoveries from moving forward, whether that is missing evidence, a research resource no single lab can build alone, a gap in funding, or a development path that does not yet exist.
Then, we help build what is needed to overcome that barrier.
That approach shapes every research investment FAST makes.
What Makes Our Research Model Different
We measure progress by what researchers can do next
FAST does not measure success by the number of projects funded. We look at whether each investment gives researchers greater clarity about the path ahead.
That may mean showing that an approach is ready to advance or revealing that a different direction is needed. Both lead to better-informed research decisions.
A Model Built for Impact
invested in research and mission-aligned initiatives
We fund the critical steps between discovery and development
Promising discoveries often need additional testing and validation before they are ready for therapeutic development. FAST funds that work, helping researchers build the evidence needed to decide what should move forward.
We build the resources researchers cannot build alone
Some of the resources needed to advance Angelman syndrome research are too complex or costly for a single laboratory to create on its own. FAST helps develop shared tools and resources that researchers can use across studies, giving the research community a stronger foundation for evaluating findings and determining what should move forward.
We invest where traditional funding falls short
Promising research does not always fit the priorities or timelines of government grants and industry investment. FAST steps in when support is missing, helping researchers answer critical questions and generate the evidence needed to move an approach forward.
When an established development path does not exist, FAST may help create one. In 2024, FAST established AS²Bio, a drug development accelerator designed to advance promising science through venture philanthropy.
We bring the right expertise together
Complex research challenges rarely sit within one area of expertise. FAST brings together leaders across science, medicine, and industry to examine important questions from multiple perspectives and make stronger decisions about what should move forward.
Bringing those perspectives together helps FAST make stronger research decisions and connect promising approaches with the expertise they need to advance.
Questions about our research?
Continue Exploring FAST Research
Explore the science, tools, and research infrastructure helping advance Angelman syndrome research.
Learn about the Angelman syndrome therapeutic pipeline, development landscape, and roadmap to future treatments.
Learn about our pre-competitive effort, the Angelman Syndrome Biomarkers and Outcome Measures Consortium (A-BOM).