The Sontag Foundation Distinguished Scientist Award is a major career development award for early‑career investigators in brain cancer research in the United States and Canada. It supports high‑risk, high‑impact projects with clear potential to transform the understanding or treatment of brain tumors. The award provides substantial, long‑term funding to help recipients establish themselves as leaders in neuro‑oncology.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Early‑career faculty at tax‑exempt academic, medical, or research institutions in the United States or Canada.
- First independent faculty appointment typically between March 1, 2020 and January 1, 2025 for the 2026 cycle (see current guidelines).
- MD and/or PhD (or equivalent) with a strong track record in brain tumor or brain cancer research.
- Projects generally focus on mechanistic, translational, or platform‑level brain cancer research; traditional clinical trials are usually not supported.
Funding Details:
- USD 750,000 total over 5 years (USD 150,000 per year), inclusive of allowable indirect costs.
- Supports investigator salary, research staff, supplies, and other project‑related costs as per program rules.
- Funds are intended to provide long‑term stability and enable ambitious, innovative brain cancer research programs.
Deadline:
- Application deadline: March 18, 2026, 11:59 pm ET.
- Awards announced: Fall 2026.
Where to go for further information: