Behind the scenes, researchers are working to unlock the secrets of cancer in its many forms—researchers who are well acquainted with the human cost of this disease and who see the vast scientific and clinical opportunities for conquering it. Some are well established in their careers and have been conducting studies for years, while others are just starting out, full of passion and commitment to start their first project.
When you are a young researcher, however, competing for grants to fund a potentially groundbreaking study can be incredibly challenging. This is where the Conquer Cancer Foundation comes in. Through its Young Investigator Awards (YIAs) and Career Development Awards (CDAs), the Foundation funds researchers early in their careers, at a time when energy and capacity for innovation outpace the years of experience needed to compete for funding.
Over $4 Million in Funding
This year the Foundation was able to support the innovative work of more than 50 promising young researchers with YIAs and CDAs totaling over $4 million. The YIA provides $50,000 in research funding to promising physicians to support the transition from final years of training to faculty appointment and to encourage and promote quality research in clinical oncology. With this year’s 30th class of YIA grantees, more than $31 million has been awarded to over 750 researchers since the first YIA was given to Judith Kaur, MD, in 1984.
Of equal importance, the CDA provides $200,000 in research funding over 3 years to clinical investigators who have already received their initial faculty appointment, to establish an independent clinical cancer research program. Established in 1992, the CDA program has provided more than $37 million to over 200 recipients, helping to launch the careers of young cancer researchers around the world.
As the application cycle for the 2014 grants opened July 1, the Foundation is not only looking for applicants who are seeking to answer the most compelling clinical questions, but also for people to join in its mission to build a pipeline of talent that will enrich cancer care and research for years to come.
Visit www.conquercancerfoundation.org for more information or to make a gift in support of ambitious young researchers. ■
© 2013. American Society of Clinical Oncology. All rights reserved.
