Beginning Investigator Grant for Catalytic Research (BIG Cat)
The BIG Cat grant from the American Association for Cancer Research supports innovative, Africa-focused cancer research by early-career investigators to build local research capacity.
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Funder: American Association for Cancer Research
Due Dates: May 12, 2026 (Letter of Intent) | September 8, 2026 (Full Application, by invitation) | December 1, 2026 (Grant term start)
Funding Amounts: $60,000 USD total over 2 years; max 10% indirect costs; up to $10,000 for travel
Summary: Supports early-career African cancer researchers to advance innovative, locally relevant cancer research and build research capacity in Africa.
Key Information: Applicants must have legal residency in Africa, be within 10 years of highest degree, and be AORTIC members; all funds must be spent in Africa.
Description
The Beginning Investigator Grant for Catalytic Research (BIG Cat) is a partnership between the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR), the African Organization for Research and Training in Cancer (AORTIC), and the US National Cancer Institute Center for Global Health. The program aims to empower early-career African cancer researchers by supporting innovative projects that address cancer prevention, detection, treatment, and survivorship relevant to the African continent. The grant is intended to catalyze future research funding and support the establishment of a sustainable cadre of African cancer scientists, with all research activities and expenditures (except limited travel) required to occur within Africa.
