It seems clear that the novel coronavirus outbreak in the US will get worse before it gets better. We are all concerned about our loved ones, our communities, and our ability as a society to respond to the unique challenges presented by this pandemic.

At MarsBio, we have been tracking the spread of SARS-CoV-2 with growing concern over the last two months. As scientists ourselves, we began digging deeply into the technical challenges presented by the virus, and engaging with the people working to address these challenges. It became clear that the best way for us to support public health officials, clinicians, and scientists in their efforts would be to assemble a task force to rapidly evaluate and obtain funding for these early projects.

Over the last week we gathered a group of researchers, investors, and operators to coordinate a response to COVID-19. Our goal is to quickly evaluate and identify funding for high potential scientific projects that will have a rapid impact on the containment, diagnosis, and treatment of this disease. The task force will vet potential ideas and highlight the most promising for funding via private donations or state / federal contributions.

The task force’s website is live at www.covid19-response.com, where we will collect ideas and consolidate communications around our efforts. Today, our greatest need is proposals for high impact projects, and grant / donation funding sources.

Together, we can address this challenge head on. If you can assist, please reach out directly.