Jun 28, 2025, 14:35

DoD FY25 Rare Cancers Research Program Concept Award

Supports highly innovative, high-risk concepts in rare cancer research—projects without preliminary data that could open new investigative avenues. Awards provide up to $140,000 total cost over 2 years to explore novel biology, preclinical models, or therapeutic strategies in cancers affecting ≤6 per 100,000 annually in the U.S.

Eligibility Criteria:

Applicant organization: Extramural or intramural U.S. or foreign academic institutions, biotech companies, foundations, DOD laboratories, and other public/private entities (for-profit and non-profit).
Principal Investigator: Investigator at or above postdoctoral fellow level at award activation.
Research sites: Non-profit academic, medical, or research centers (U.S. or abroad). For-profit institutions may collaborate but cannot receive funds.
Focus areas (choose at least one):
- Biology (molecular pathways, microenvironment)
- Preclinical research models (rare tumor–specific)
- Therapy (novel or repurposed strategies)
Clinical trials are not allowed; observational human research must be exempt or expedited.

Funding Details:

Amount: Up to 140,000 USD total cost (direct + indirect) over a maximum 2-year period
Allowable Costs: Personnel, supplies, equipment, limited travel to present results; no clinical trial costs; indirect costs per negotiated rate.

Deadlines:

Pre-Application (LOI): July 22, 2025, 5 p.m. ET
Full Application: August 26, 2025, 11:59 p.m. ET
Verification Period Ends: August 29, 2025, 5 p.m. ET

Where to Go for Further Information:

View the program announcement.
Application details.

biology-focus cancer CDMRP concept-award DoD-funding eBRAP high-risk research novel therapies OncoDaily Oncology Preclinical models preliminary-data-not-required Rare Cancers translational research

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