LCRF Research Grant on Prevention and Early Detection in Lung Cancer

The Lung Cancer Research Foundation (LCRF) Prevention and Early Detection Research Grant Program supports innovative research projects that address critical issues in the early detection and prevention of lung cancer. As lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the U.S. and globally, LCRF aims to invest in research that can improve early diagnosis, enhance patient outcomes, and ultimately reduce mortality. The 2026 grant cycle seeks proposals that explore novel screening techniques, biomarkers, imaging tools, and prevention strategies that can detect lung cancer at earlier, more treatable stages. This mechanism applies to both non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and welcomes studies that investigate the biological processes preceding tumor development. Funded projects may include, but are not limited to, the development and validation of biomarkers, genomic and histological approaches for tissue sampling, and the design of liquid biopsy assays. The program also encourages epidemiological studies on risk factors, implementation science efforts to broaden screening accessibility, and the creation of technologies to identify early-stage lung cancers. While there is no rigid list of qualifying topics, the emphasis is on practical innovations with strong potential for clinical translation. The program values systematic approaches that enhance early intervention and improve outcomes through more accurate risk stratification and targeted prevention. Eligible applicants must be post-doctoral researchers, clinical fellows, or early-to-mid career investigators with less than seven years since their first faculty appointment. They must be primarily affiliated with non-profit academic or research institutions. Both U.S.-based and international applicants are welcome, regardless of citizenship status. However, individuals who have received LCRF funding in the past four years, are currently funded by LCRF, or are applying in more than one funding track are ineligible. Senior investigators may only participate by mentoring eligible junior applicants. Exceptions to eligibility may be considered but must be approved before the deadline. The total award is $150,000 over a two-year period, distributed as $75,000 per year. Funds may be used for personnel costs (with justification if exceeding 20% of the budget), travel, publication fees, and essential equipment. However, institutional indirect costs and general equipment unrelated to the specific research project are not allowed. The grant must be the primary source of support for the project, though secondary sources for specific services are permitted. The application process involves a two-stage submission through Proposal Central: an initial Letter of Intent (LOI), followed by an invitation-only full proposal. The LOI must include general information, a one-page specific aims document, a lay summary, and NIH biosketches. Invited full proposals will require a detailed narrative, success factors, mentoring plan, timeline, future plans, budget, and letters of support. Specific formatting guidelines apply, including standard fonts and margin sizes. The LOI submission deadline is March 10, 2026, with notifications issued by April 28, 2026. Full proposals from selected applicants are due by June 2, 2026. Final award decisions will be announced in November 2026, and projects are expected to commence on December 1, 2026. All awarded projects must comply with LCRF’s open science and data sharing policies, including public availability of peer-reviewed findings and disclosure of data-sharing intentions. Reporting requirements include an interim report at the end of the first year, a final report within 60 days of project completion, and lay updates every six months. All reports must be submitted via Proposal Central. Questions can be directed to the LCRF grants office at [email protected] or +1 (212) 588-1580. Technical assistance for the portal is available via ProposalCentral customer support. LCRF emphasizes early engagement and adherence to deadlines, as late or incomplete applications will not be considered under any circumstances.

Submit early; ensure letters confirm resources; follow formatting rules precisely