Tom-Wahlig-Stiftung-Jena

The Tom-Wahlig Foundation Jena is a non-independent, non-profit foundation administered by the Ernst Abbe Foundation Jena. It was established in 1998 as the world's first foundation dedicated to the research of Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia (HSP). Its purpose includes the promotion of basic and therapeutic research, the awarding of research scholarships (e.g., the highly endowed Advanced Scholarship), the support of smaller projects, as well as the provision of information and advice to affected individuals, relatives, physicians, and scientists. Annually, the foundation organizes an international symposium and maintains a network of specialized outpatient clinics in Germany and Austria.

The Tom Wahlig Foundation is committed to researching the rare, currently incurable Hereditary Spastic Spinal Paraplegia to identify causes, disease mechanisms, and therapeutic approaches. It promotes professional exchange between physicians and biologists worldwide, supports early-career researchers with scholarships and projects, and provides comprehensive information to affected individuals and the public about the disease profile, research status, and possible treatment options.

The funding programs are aimed at researchers (medical doctors, biologists) worldwide who conduct projects on the genetics, pathophysiology, and therapy of HSP; early-career scientists applying for scholarships through the Advanced Scholarship or project funding; clinics and specialized outpatient departments in Germany and Austria that diagnose and treat individuals affected by HSP; as well as affected individuals and their relatives who wish to utilize information and counseling services.