The Cancer Research Institute (CRI) IGNITE Award supports exceptional postdoctoral researchers transitioning into independent tenure-track investigators. Through two sequential phases — Foundation and Independence — the program provides structured funding, mentorship, and institutional collaboration to empower the next generation of leaders in cancer immunology.
Eligibility Criteria:
Phase 1 – Foundation Phase:
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Must be in a mentored postdoctoral position at the time of application.
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No more than 5 years of postdoctoral experience (exceptions may be granted; contact CRI).
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Must commit to at least 12 months of mentored research before transition.
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Open to researchers globally; no citizenship restrictions.
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Research may be conducted in the U.S. or abroad at a non-profit institution.
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Applicants must not currently or previously hold an independent or tenure-track faculty position in academia, industry, or elsewhere.
Phase 2 – Independence Phase:
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Must hold a full-time tenure-track assistant professor (or equivalent) position.
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Must complete at least 12 months of the Foundation Phase (contact CRI if tenure-track offer is made earlier).
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Institution must guarantee at least 65% protected research time and provide an adequate start-up package.
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IGNITE funds cannot replace institutional commitments or salary support.
Funding Details:
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Phase 1 (Foundation): Up to 2 years, USD 150,000 per year for mentored postdoctoral research.
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Phase 2 (Independence): Up to 3 years, USD 250,000 per year for independent faculty research.
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Funding includes research costs, salary, and development support.
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Both phases emphasize mentorship, lab independence, and skill-building for sustained research careers.
Deadline:
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Application Deadline: January 9, 2026 (11:59 p.m. Eastern Time).
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Notifications issued approximately 10–12 weeks after the deadline.
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Awards activate on the first of the month following approval.
Where to go for further information: