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Milken Institute Strategic Philanthropy

Science Philanthropy Accelerator for Research and Collaboration (SPARC)

Science Philanthropy Accelerator for Research and Collaboration (SPARC) works to develop, launch, and lead initiatives that propel scientific and medical research. We target investments that accelerate the development of tools and treatments, bringing better health to millions of people.

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Science Philanthropy Accelerator for Research and Collaboration (SPARC)

Our Work

We are scientists, with a deep understanding of research ecosystems, the importance of good science to advancing human health, and how to apply the philanthropic mechanisms that will lead to long-term change.

Immunology

Working in lock step with high-impact funders to develop giving strategies that support researchers who study immunological diseases, and the patients and families who live with these conditions.

Mental Health

Bringing together a philanthropic community to invest in transformative research to better understand, treat, and cure mental health conditions.

Neuroscience

Funding models for research to understand brain function and unlock paths to better diagnostics and treatments.

Oncology

Leading donors through the cancer research ecosystem, engaging experts from other sectors to design investments that will lead to cures for a range of cancers.

Rare Disease

Guiding research and clinical strategies in disease areas with few patients and low incentives for private investment, and engaging patients throughout the process.

Science Philanthropy Ecosystem

Providing cross-cutting guidance to philanthropic funders to create impact across the science and health research ecosystem.

Biomedical Philanthropy

Our scientists and philanthropy advisors guide high-impact funders through complex research systems and recommend investments that accelerate the path to a healthy world.

Science Philanthropy Accelerator for Research and Collaboration (SPARC)
Most Recent Content

Science Philanthropy Accelerator for Research and Collaboration (SPARC)

Our Team

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Cara Altimus

Managing Director, SPARC, Milken Institute Philanthropy
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Quinton Banks

Associate Director, SPARC, Milken Institute Philanthropy
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Kelsey Barcomb

Senior Associate, SPARC and Program Manager, BD², Milken Institute Philanthropy
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Emily Baxi

Director, SPARC, Milken Institute Philanthropy
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Veronica Beck

Senior Associate, SPARC, Milken Institute Philanthropy
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Ishita Das

Associate Director, SPARC, Milken Institute Philanthropy
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Taylor Evans

Senior Associate, SPARC, Milken Institute Philanthropy
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Tom Jurkiw

Tom Jurkiw

Associate Director, SPARC, Milken Institute Philanthropy
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Tanisha London

Senior Associate, SPARC, Milken Institute Philanthropy
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Penrod, Nadia - Headshot

Nadia Penrod

Senior Associate, SPARC, Milken Institute Philanthropy
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A smiling male-presenting individual of Asian heritage with dark hair wearing a green, floral-print jacket and tie against an outdoor background

Daniel Pham

Director, SPARC and Program Director, BD2, Milken Institute Philanthropy
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Sylvie Raver

Director, SPARC, Milken Institute Philanthropy
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Erin Ross

Director, SPARC, Milken Institute Philanthropy
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Samantha Kost

Senior Associate, SPARC, Milken Institute Philanthropy
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A smiling light-skinned female-presenting person with light brown hair wearing a blue shirt against an outdoor background

Agnes Stephens

Associate Director, SPARC, Milken Institute Philanthropy
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Kara Whelply

Associate Director, SPARC, Milken Institute Philanthropy
Science Philanthropy Accelerator for Research and Collaboration (SPARC)

Leaders

SPARC Philanthropy Leadership Collective

Convening philanthropists looking to fund health and medical research, and deepen the impact of their investments.

Partner with Us

Leverage our strategic advisory service, scientific experts, and the breadth of the Milken Institute network to ensure your philanthropic resources advance medical solutions.