Conquer Cancer, the ASCO Foundation, is accepting applications for a dedicated 2026 Young Investigator Award focused on Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL). Like other YIA special competitions, this is a one-year mentored award for physician-scientists at the cusp of their first faculty appointment, working to establish a productive independent research direction in hematologic oncology. CLL remains a focus of intense investigative activity given the emergence of targeted therapies and ongoing questions around resistance, disease biology, and patient selection. This award is made possible by dedicated philanthropic endowment and is separate from the general YIA competition. The same application portal and eligibility criteria apply, and applicants may also be considered for general competition YIA funding.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Must be a physician (MD, DO, or international equivalent) within the last two years of final subspecialty training (e.g., hematology-oncology fellowship) at an academic institution
- Must be within 10 years of obtaining their medical degree
- Must be planning an investigative career in oncology and working in a relevant laboratory or clinical research setting
- Must be an ASCO member or have submitted a membership application
- Research must have a clear focus on Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia with a patient-oriented clinical or translational approach
- Open to US and international applicants; a valid medical license in the country of research is required
- Must commit at least 60% of research time to the project
Funding Details:
- $50,000 for one year (July 2026 – June 2027)
- Covers personnel and/or research expenses
- Includes travel allowance (up to $1,500) to attend the Conquer Cancer Grants and Awards Ceremony at the ASCO Annual Meeting
- Applicants may not hold more than one active Conquer Cancer grant simultaneously
Deadline:
- March 12, 2026
- Submission via the ASCO online application portal
Where to Go for Further Information: