The Pershing Square Sohn Cancer Prize funds early-career US scientists for innovative, high-risk cancer research and connects them to a collaborative scientific network.
Funder: Pershing Square Philanthropies
Due Dates (Anticipated): November 2026 (Letter of Intent deadline, projected)
Funding Amounts: $750,000 total per award ($250,000/year for 3 years); minimum 6 awards annually
Summary: Supports early-career US scientists pursuing innovative, high-risk cancer research with funding and access to a collaborative network.
Key Information: Eligibility now open to all US institutions; only one application per PI per year, max two lifetime attempts.
The Pershing Square Sohn Cancer Prize, administered by the Pershing Square Sohn Cancer Research Alliance, provides substantial support to early-career scientists in the United States to pursue bold, high-risk cancer research at a formative stage of their careers. The award aims to accelerate transformative discoveries in cancer by funding projects that may be too innovative or speculative for traditional funding sources. In addition to financial support, recipients gain access to a dynamic network of peers, industry mentors, and exclusive professional development opportunities, including annual retreats and presentation platforms.