The AACR MONARCA Grant for Latin America supports early-career independent investigators across Latin America working in any area of cancer research. It is explicitly designed to help build and retain a cadre of local cancer researchers with the skills and data needed to compete for larger grants. The award provides flexible, two-year project funding for laboratory, translational, clinical, or population-based cancer research.
Eligibility Criteria:
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Early-career independent investigator (e.g., within 7 years of terminal degree) at a non-profit academic or research institution in Latin America
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Citizen of, and currently residing and working in, a Latin American country
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Project in any area of cancer research (basic, translational, clinical, epidemiologic, implementation, or survivorship)
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Able to commit substantial research effort to the funded project
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AACR member in good standing (or membership application submitted by the deadline)
Funding Details:
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Total award: 55,000 USD
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Grant term: 2 years
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Funds may support salary for the PI and staff, supplies, assays, local data collection, and limited travel related to the project
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No or tightly restricted indirect costs, according to AACR policy
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Emphasis on feasibility, local capacity building, and longer-term sustainability of the investigator’s research program
Deadline:
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Letter of intent deadline (2026 cycle): January 22, 2026, 6:00 PM UTC
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Full application deadline (by invitation): May 14, 2026, 6:00 PM UTC
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Decision date: July 2026
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Start of grant term: September 1, 2026
Where to go for further information: