The Damon Runyon Physician-Scientist Training Award is an initiative of the Damon Runyon Cancer Research Foundation aimed at fostering the development of early-career physician-scientists who are committed to clinical and translational cancer research. This prestigious award provides financial and professional support to exceptional candidates seeking to transition from clinical training into research careers focused on cancer.
Applications for the upcoming funding cycle must be submitted via Proposal Central by December 2, 2025, at 4:00 PM Eastern Time. No hard copies or emailed applications will be accepted. The review process will take place on March 6, 2026, with funding scheduled to begin on July 1, 2026. Only one application may be submitted per mentor or co-mentor per review cycle.
The application requirements are rigorous and comprehensive. Applicants must include a signed cover sheet, an At-a-Glance form, and letters of commitment from both institutional leadership and the applicant. A personal statement and a detailed NIH biosketch are also required, along with a full bibliography highlighting peer-reviewed research. Applicants must disclose their three most important professional accomplishments, outline current and pending funding sources, and provide letters of recommendation from two non-mentor referees.
Mentors are expected to submit letters of support, describe their track records in mentorship, and provide NIH biosketches. A three-page proposal from the mentor outlines the training plan and support for the applicant’s transition to independence. The applicant must submit a detailed research proposal not exceeding four pages, along with a one-page research summary. Up to three collaboration letters may also be included, if relevant.
The Foundation emphasizes mentorship, career development, and the establishment of physician-scientists capable of leading independent cancer research. All applicants must guarantee a minimum of 80% protected research time, which will be monitored during the award term. Contact for the program is via awards@damonrunyon.org, and the Foundation’s main office is located in New York City.
