Young Investigator Award in Early Cancer Detection

The Conquer Cancer Young Investigator Award in Early Cancer Detection is a competitive research funding opportunity offered by Conquer Cancer, the ASCO Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to accelerating breakthroughs in oncology and improving cancer care globally. Since its founding in 1984, the foundation has awarded substantial funding to support clinical and translational cancer research. This specific award focuses on early cancer detection and aims to support promising physician-scientists transitioning from training into independent research careers. The primary purpose of this award is to fund innovative research projects that advance early-stage cancer detection. Early detection is emphasized due to its proven impact on improving survival outcomes, reducing treatment costs, and enhancing patient quality of life. The program encourages cutting-edge approaches such as liquid biopsies, advanced imaging, artificial intelligence-driven diagnostics, molecular recurrence detection, and risk stratification using electronic health records and genetic data. Both preclinical and clinical studies are eligible, provided they demonstrate a clear path toward clinical application and measurable outcomes within the project timeline. The award provides a total of 50000 dollars for a one-year project period, distributed in two equal installments. Funding must primarily support direct research costs such as personnel, supplies, and equipment, with strict limits on indirect costs and travel expenses. At least 46000 dollars must be allocated to research activities, while up to 1500 dollars may be used for travel, including attendance at a required awards ceremony. Indirect costs are capped at 5 percent of the total award. The funding is administered through the recipient’s sponsoring institution and must align strictly with the approved project budget. Eligibility is limited to physicians with an MD, DO, or international equivalent who are early in their oncology careers. Applicants must be within a defined window of training or early faculty appointment, typically within two years of completing subspecialty training or within the first year of a faculty role. Additional requirements include holding an active medical license, committing at least 60 percent effort to research, maintaining ASCO membership or application status, and working under the guidance of an experienced mentor. There are no geographic restrictions, allowing both U.S. and international applicants to apply. The application process is comprehensive and must be completed through the ASCO online portal. Required components include detailed research proposals, a biostatistical plan, patient impact statements, mentorship plans, institutional support letters, and multiple supporting documents. Clinical proposals must include patient advocate involvement, while all applications are evaluated for scientific merit, feasibility, and potential impact. Applications undergo a rigorous multi-stage peer review process, including scientific, statistical, and patient advocacy assessments. Key dates for the program include an application opening on July 1, 2026, and a submission deadline of March 11, 2027. Award notifications are expected in April 2027, with the funding period running from July 1, 2027, through June 30, 2028. The program operates on an annual cycle, and applicants are encouraged to begin early due to the complexity of submission requirements. Questions and support are available through the program’s official contact email, ensuring applicants can clarify eligibility and submission requirements prior to applying.

Ensure a strong, hypothesis-driven proposal, clear and measurable outcomes, a robust statistical plan, and meaningful patient impact with mentor support