Discovery Programme Foundation Award
Cancer Research UK’s Discovery Programme Foundation Award funds mid-career researchers to establish independent, innovative cancer biology research programmes foundational to future breakthroughs.
Funder: Cancer Research UK
Due Dates: September 29, 2025 (Outline) | January 12, 2026 (Full) | April 2, 2026 (Outline) | June 25, 2026 (Full) | September 29, 2026 (Outline)
Funding Amounts: Up to £1.5 million over 6 years; covers postdocs, technical staff, PhD students, running costs, and essential equipment.
Summary: Supports mid-career researchers in the UK to establish robust, independent cancer research programmes foundational to future breakthroughs.
Key Information: Applicants must contact CRUK for eligibility discussion before applying; this is a closed scheme.
Description
This award is designed for mid-career researchers aiming to develop their independent research programmes and scientific leadership in cancer research. It funds coherent, multidisciplinary programmes addressing fundamental questions in cancer biology, from molecular mechanisms to whole-body studies, and supports the creation or application of novel technologies and methodologies. The scheme is intended to provide a foundation for future internationally-leading research, often serving as a stepping stone to the Discovery Programme Award. It is overseen by the Discovery Research Committee, which assesses proposals for scientific excellence, innovation, and alignment with Cancer Research UK's strategy.
