AACR Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) Fellowship 2026: $130,000 Funding Available — Apply by Jan 22

The American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) has opened applications for the AACR Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) Research Fellowship for the 2026 grant term. This is a prestigious funding opportunity designed to cultivate the next generation of leaders in lung cancer research.

Selected early-career scientists will receive a total grant of $130,000 over two years to support their mentored research projects. If you are a postdoctoral or clinical research fellow working on innovative basic, translational, or clinical research relevant to NSCLC, this is a career-defining opportunity. The deadline to submit your Letter of Intent is January 22, 2026.

Fellowship Overview & Key Details

Program Scope: What is Funded?

The fellowship supports research that has direct applicability to Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC). The goal is to advance the understanding and treatment of the disease while helping fellows establish independence. Eligible Research Types: Basic, Translational, Clinical, or Population Science.

Eligibility Criteria

This fellowship is highly competitive and targets early-career researchers. To qualify, you must meet the following strict requirements:

• Education: You must hold a doctoral degree (PhD, MD, DO, or equivalent) in a related field. You cannot be currently pursuing another doctoral degree.
• Degree Completion: You must have completed your most recent doctoral degree or medical residency within the past 5 years (specifically, on or after August 1, 2021).
• Position: At the start of the grant term (August 1, 2026), you must hold a mentored research position (e.g., postdoctoral fellow, clinical research fellow) at an academic, medical, or research institution.
• AACR Membership: You must be an AACR member. (Nonmembers must submit a membership application by the LOI deadline).
• Geography: There are no geographic or citizenship restrictions, provided your visa allows you to complete the project at the host institution.

Funding and Benefits

The total award of $130,000 is a substantial boost for any early-career researcher. Stipend: Typically $65,000 per year. Coverage: Funds can be used for salary, benefits, and research expenses directly related to the project. (Note: Funding cannot be used for indirect costs/overhead or clinical trial expenses).

Application Timeline

The selection process involves two stages. You must pass the first stage to be invited for the second.

1. Letter of Intent (LOI): Submit your LOI by January 22, 2026 (1:00 PM ET).
2. Full Application: If invited, you must submit your full proposal by May 7, 2026.
3. Decision: Award notifications are sent in June 2026, with the grant term beginning on August 1, 2026.

How to Apply

Applications are submitted online via the AACR funding portal. Ensure you have your mentor's support and proof of your current research position ready.

Official Application Link: Click Here to Apply for AACR Fellowship