The Damon Runyon-Dale F. Frey Award supports exceptional early-career scientists in launching independent, innovative cancer research with potential for major breakthroughs.
Funder: Damon Runyon Cancer Research Foundation
Due Dates: July 15, 2026 (Full application submission deadline)
Funding Amounts: $100,000 for one year; funds must be expended within two years; flexible use for research and salary
Summary: Supports exceptional former Damon Runyon Fellows as they transition to independence, advancing innovative cancer research.
Key Information: Only eligible for recent Damon Runyon or Quantitative Biology Fellows from specified cycles; cannot be used for indirect costs.
The Damon Runyon-Dale F. Frey Award for Breakthrough Scientists provides targeted support to outstanding early-career researchers who have completed a Damon Runyon Fellowship or Damon Runyon Quantitative Biology Fellowship. The award is intended to accelerate the transition of these promising scientists to independent research careers in cancer and recognizes those who have demonstrated exceptional productivity, leadership potential, and the capacity to make significant impacts in cancer research. The award is highly competitive, focusing on scientific excellence, future vision, and the potential for paradigm-shifting discoveries in cancer prevention, diagnosis, or treatment.