2026 Pershing Square Sohn Cancer Prize
The Pershing Square Sohn Cancer Prize funds early-career US scientists pursuing bold, high-risk cancer research projects that are too novel for traditional grants.
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 of 6 awards annually
Summary: Supports early-career scientists in the US pursuing innovative, high-risk cancer research projects beyond the scope of traditional funding.
Key Information: Open to all US institutions; only two applications per PI lifetime; indirect costs capped at 10%.
Description
The Pershing Square Sohn Cancer Prize, offered by the Pershing Square Sohn Cancer Research Alliance, accelerates cures for cancer by funding early-career scientists to pursue bold, high-risk, and innovative research projects. The program is intended for projects that are too novel or speculative for traditional funding sources and provides recipients not only with significant financial support but also with access to a robust network of peers, industry leaders, and specialized programs. The award aims to catalyze paradigm-shifting discoveries and foster entrepreneurial scientific talent in cancer research across the United States.
