These AACR Diversity Career Development Awards provide substantial support to early-career cancer investigators and aim to enhance diversity in the cancer research workforce. Each award offers $300,000 over 3 years to promising scientists from underrepresented groups or with projects focused on cancer disparities, helping them establish independent labs and careers. Recipients gain not only research funding but also mentorship and inclusion in AACR’s professional networks. By investing in diverse talent, AACR seeks to stimulate innovative research and ensure that the oncology community reflects the diversity of the patients it serves. These awards empower new faculty to pursue high-impact cancer science while fostering an inclusive culture of discovery.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Applicants must hold a doctoral degree (PhD, MD, or equivalent) and have a full-time faculty appointment at the level of
- Assistant Professor (or equivalent) by the start of the grant term (Sept 1, 2026). Those in transition to such a position may apply with confirmation of the future post.
- Must be early-career independent investigators – within 5–7 years of starting their first faculty position (first appointment no earlier than Sept 2019). Physicians must have completed their training/residency within the past 6 years.
- Open to candidates worldwide; no citizenship restrictions (non-U.S. researchers are eligible, provided visa status allows project completion at their host institution). AACR membership is required by the LOI deadline (applicants may join when applying).
- Emphasis on diversity: Applicants from historically underrepresented racial/ethnic groups and those studying cancer health disparities are strongly encouraged. While not explicitly limited by demographics, the program’s goal is to foster diversity and inclusion in cancer science.
Funding Details:
- Grant amount: $300,000 USD total, disbursed over 3 years (approximately $100,000 per year). Funds cover any research-related expenses, including salary support, lab supplies, equipment, and travel for the awardee’s project. Clinical trials are not funded under this mechanism (projects should be basic, translational, population, or non-interventional clinical research).
- Awardees join AACR’s cohort of Minority Scholar/EDI grantees, gaining mentorship and networking. They will also present research progress at AACR conferences. Indirect costs are capped at 10%.
- Grant term: 3 years (start date September 1, 2026). Continuation each year is contingent on satisfactory progress.
Deadline:
- January 27, 2026 – Letter of Intent (mandatory pre-application) due by 1:00 PM ET.
- Selected LOI applicants will be invited to submit a full application by May 19, 2026 (notification of decision by July 2026).
Where to go for further information: