The American Cancer Society Postdoctoral Fellowship is one of the longest-running postdoctoral funding mechanisms in oncology, supporting early-career cancer scientists for more than 75 years. It provides up to three years of mentored research support across every area of the cancer continuum — from basic and translational science to behavioral research, epidemiology, health services, and health policy. Progressive stipends of $66,000 (Year 1), $68,000 (Year 2), and $70,000 (Year 3) make it one of the most financially competitive postdoctoral awards in the US. Applications for the June 2026 cycle became available on ProposalCentral in March 2026 and are now open. A December 1, 2026 cycle also exists for applicants who need more time.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Must hold a terminal doctoral degree (PhD, MD, DVM, or equivalent); degree must be conferred before the grant activates
- Must be within 4 years of receiving their terminal doctoral degree as of the application deadline (0–3 years: eligible for 3-year fellowship; 3–4 years: eligible for 2-year fellowship)
- Time spent in clinical-only training does not count toward the 4-year limit
- Must hold a postdoctoral position at the time of award activation; faculty-level positions, staff scientist, or research scientist roles are not eligible
- Research must be cancer-focused and conducted at a US non-profit university, hospital, or research institution
- US citizenship or lawful immigration status required (non-US citizens must hold a valid visa permitting the research)
- No concurrent major postdoctoral fellowship award from a competing private source
Funding Details:
- Year 1: $66,000; Year 2: $68,000; Year 3: $70,000 (progressive stipend structure)
- $4,000/year fellowship allowance to offset health insurance, conference, and professional development costs
- $1,500 final-year travel allowance for the ACS Postdoctoral Fellows Symposium or a domestic scientific meeting
- Parental leave: 4–12 weeks paid leave per year with grant term extended accordingly
- Top-ranked fellowships may receive supplemental funding from ACS endowments
Deadline:
- June 1, 2026 (if deadline falls on a weekend or holiday, the next business day applies)
- Submit via ProposalCentral; applications currently available
- December 1, 2026 cycle also exists
Where to Go for Further Information:
- Fellowship overview and eligibility
- Eligibility inquiries: grant.eligibility@cancer.org (at least 6 weeks before deadline)
- General grants: grants@cancer.org