[Damon Runyon Cancer Research Foundation](https://www.damonrunyon.org)

February 2, 2026 (Full application submission deadline, 4:00 PM ET)

Up to $61,000 total: $50,000 stipend, $8,500 living allowance, $2,500 travel (1 year)

Year-long post-baccalaureate research and mentorship program for outstanding young scholars pursuing biomedical research careers.

--- ## Description The Damon Runyon Scholars Program for Advancing Research and Knowledge (SPARK) is a year-long, full-time post-baccalaureate initiative designed to immerse exceptional college seniors and recent graduates in hands-on biomedical research. Scholars are matched with leading Damon Runyon scientists at top U.S. academic institutions, gaining invaluable laboratory experience, mentorship, and professional development. The program emphasizes inclusivity, aiming to support promising individuals from diverse and underrepresented backgrounds who are committed to pursuing advanced degrees and careers in research. In addition to research training, participants join a vibrant community through retreats, scientific communication workshops, and networking events. --- ## Due Dates - February 2, 2026: Full application submission deadline (applications must be submitted via Proposal Central by 4:00 PM Eastern Time) Additional selection timeline: - Finalist interviews: March 12, 2026 - Scholar and mentor matchmaking: March/April 2026 - Program start: Summer 2026 (aligned with host institution’s post-baccalaureate timeline) --- ## Funding Amount - **Total support per Scholar:** Up to $61,000 for the year, including: - **Stipend:** Up to $50,000 - **Living Allowance:** Up to $8,500 (paid directly to Scholar) - **Travel Allowance:** Up to $2,500 (for scientific meetings and the Damon Runyon Fellows’ Retreat) - **Additional:** $1,500 for host institution’s program director for community-building events - **Restrictions:** No indirect or overhead costs allowed; awards are made to the host institution for the Scholar’s support --- ## Eligibility - Open to current college seniors and those who have earned a bachelor’s degree within the past 36 months - Applicants must be: - U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or DACA recipients eligible to work in the U.S. - Strongly committed to a research career and planning to pursue a PhD, MD, DO, or MD/PhD after the program - Candidates from all backgrounds are encouraged, especially those with limited prior research opportunities or from economically disadvantaged backgrounds - Full-time research commitment required; Scholars may not hold other positions or pursue additional degrees during the award period --- ## Application Process - Applications must be submitted through [Proposal Central](https://proposalcentral.com/) by the deadline - Required materials: - Coversheet - Demographics and research focus survey - Resume or CV (max 3 pages) - Personal statement (max 1 page) - Commitment to a career in research statement (max 1 page) - Research interest statement (1 paragraph) - Unofficial transcripts (official transcripts required upon acceptance) - One letter of reference (must be uploaded directly by the referee before the deadline) - Detailed instructions and forms are available on the [program guidelines page](https://www.damonrunyon.org/for-scientists/application-guidelines/research/forms) - No hard copies or emailed applications accepted --- ## Additional Information - Scholars will attend a 3-day Damon Runyon Fellows’ Retreat, present a poster, and participate in virtual scientific communication sessions - Progress and financial reporting are required at the end of the program - No employer-employee relationship is created; Scholars are responsible for any tax liabilities on allowances - Scholars must acknowledge Damon Runyon support in all resulting publications and presentations --- ## External Links - [Program Details and Guidelines](https://www.damonrunyon.org/for-scientists/application-guidelines/research) - [Application Portal (Proposal Central)](https://proposalcentral.com/) - [Application Forms & Instructions](https://www.damonrunyon.org/for-scientists/application-guidelines/research/forms) - [SPARK Info Session Registration](https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/zzdK5bGZRLmX6kZG5P9V-A#/registration) --- ## Contact Information | Purpose | Contact | |------------------------|------------------------------------------| | General program queries| [awards@damonrunyon.org](mailto:awards@damonrunyon.org) | | Foundation main phone | +1 877-722-6237 | | Foundation address | One Exchange Plaza, 55 Broadway, Suite 302, New York, NY 10006, USA | ---

Damon Runyon Scholars Program for Advancing Research and Knowledge

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