Medical research in Canterbury has received a 1.5 million dollar boost

Research into pancreatic, blood and breast cancers, heart disease, mental health, Parkinson's disease and child health are among the projects The Canterbury Medical Research Foundation is funding.

Foundation Chief Executive, Melissa Haberfield says it will allow researchers to kick start their careers and conduct crucial study to save lives.

She says it ensures researchers have the capability to stay in Canterbury and not have to look overseas.