The AACR–Torrey Coast Foundation Transpacific Gastric and Esophageal Cancer Research Partnership Grant supports a multi-institutional team of investigators in the United States and Asia to collaborate on innovative research in upper gastrointestinal cancer. With gastric and esophageal cancers causing over a million deaths worldwide annually, this two-year grant aims to advance translational science—targeting metastasis, treatment resistance, novel therapeutic targets, and immunotherapy approaches—and accelerate progress toward improved patient outcomes. Proposals must demonstrate a clear path to clinical application and foster new cross-continental partnerships to catalyze high-impact discoveries.
Eligibility Criteria:
- A team science approach is required: at least one Principal Investigator based at a U.S. institution and one co-PI at an institution in Asia.
- Applicants (PIs and co-PIs) must hold a doctoral degree (PhD, MD, or equivalent) and be affiliated with an academic, medical, or research institution in the U.S. and Asia. Investigators at all career stages are invited, including those new to upper GI cancer research.
- No citizenship restrictions; non-resident applicants must ensure appropriate visa status for project duration.
- AACR membership (Active member status) is required for the Lead PI and co-PI (or application for membership by deadline).
Funding Details:
- Award: USD 400,000 total for a 2-year project.
- Provides for direct research costs (including limited indirect costs) across the collaborating institutions. Funds can support personnel, supplies, and other research expenses necessary for the joint project.
- Collaborative structure: Funding is intended to be shared between U.S. and Asian partner labs, with the Lead PI managing disbursement and progress reporting across sites.
Deadline:
- Application Deadline: January 15, 2026 at 1:00 PM (ET).
- Award decision by April 2026aacr.org; grant term starts July 1, 2026.
Where to go for further information: