The LEAP Grant is a new American Cancer Society initiative (in partnership with the RUNX1 Research Program) to drive breakthroughs in preventing leukemia in people with familial RUNX1 mutations. It supports cutting-edge research on intercepting the progression from pre-cancerous RUNX1-FPD blood disorders to leukemia, aiming to develop strategies that stop cancer before it starts. Grantees will pursue high-risk, high-reward studies – from deciphering leukemia-triggering mechanisms in RUNX1-mutant blood cells to testing innovative early interventions – with a focus on saving lives through prevention. This program offers substantial funding for both individual investigators and collaborative teams, empowering scientists to make a “leap” forward against hereditary leukemia.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Independent investigators at a U.S. academic institution or nonprofit (faculty-level appointment).
- Open to researchers at any career stage, including early-career and established scientists (full-time, with doctoral degree).
- Project must specifically address RUNX1 familial platelet disorder (RUNX1-FPD) and aim to either elucidate leukemogenic mechanisms or develop interception/prevention therapies for this inherited leukemia predisposition.
- Team science applications are allowed. Applicants may apply for either a Research Scholar Grant (RSG) or a Team Award, but not both.
Funding Details:
- Two funding mechanisms: LEAP Research Scholar Grants (up to $215,000 per year for 4 years) and LEAP Team Awards (up to $430,000 per year for 4 years). Each comes with an additional 10% in allowable indirect costs.
- Total direct cost funding up to $860,000 (RSG) or $1.72 million (Team Award) plus indirects. Projects are funded for up to 4 years, with a midterm progress review at 2 years to ensure milestones are met.
- Supports salaries, supplies, and all research costs; encourages assembling interdisciplinary teams for the Team Award.
- Approximately 3 awards expected (either 3 RSGs or a mix of RSG and Team Award).
Deadline:
- June 1, 2026 (anticipated) – Full application due by this date (if it falls on a weekend/holiday, following business day).
- Grant awards are expected to be announced by January 2027, with funding to begin April 1, 2027.
Where to go for further information: