DoW Kidney Cancer, Academy of Kidney Cancer Investigators – Early-Career Scholar Award
About
Summary: Initially created in fiscal year 2019 (FY19), the Kidney Cancer Research Program (KCRP) Academy of Kidney Cancer Investigators (AKCI) is a unique interactive virtual academy providing intensive mentoring, national networking, collaborations, and a peer group for junior faculty. The Academy pairs Early Career Scholars (ECS) with established investigators (Designated Mentors) under the oversight of the AKCI Leadership Team, a Designated Mentor Panel, and the Kidney Cancer Patient Advocates Panel. The AKCI’s overarching goal is to conduct innovative and impactful kidney cancer research while also developing a vital resource, a network of highly productive kidney cancer researchers conducting cutting edge research that advances the state of the field in kidney cancer and leads to new treatments for individuals living with kidney cancer. Distinctive Features: · Early-Career Scholar: The FY26 KCRP AKCI-ECSA focuses on both the Scholar’s research and their career potential in the kidney cancer field. · Designated Mentor: The Designated Mentor must have a strong record of successful mentorship coupled with a strong record of funding (past and present) and publications in kidney cancer research. · Preliminary Data: Preliminary data to support the feasibility of the research and approaches are required; however, these data do not need to be derived from the kidney cancer research field.
The DoW Kidney Cancer, Academy of Kidney Cancer Investigators – Early-Career Scholar Award is a prestigious mentorship and research funding opportunity designed for junior faculty researchers committed to advancing kidney cancer research and treatment. Established in fiscal year 2019 by the Kidney Cancer Research Program (KCRP), this unique virtual academy pairs Early Career Scholars with established investigators who have demonstrated excellence in both mentorship and kidney cancer research. The program goes beyond traditional funding by providing intensive mentoring, national networking opportunities, and collaborative peer groups specifically focused on kidney cancer innovation. Scholars benefit from guidance by a Designated Mentor Panel and oversight from kidney cancer patient advocates, ensuring research addresses real patient needs. The program evaluates both the quality of proposed research and the Scholar's long-term career potential in the kidney cancer field. Applicants must demonstrate preliminary data supporting the feasibility of their research approaches, though this data need not originate from kidney cancer research specifically. This award is ideal for early-career investigators seeking to establish themselves as productive kidney cancer researchers while gaining access to a supportive network of peers and mentors dedicated to advancing the state of kidney cancer treatment and patient outcomes.
Funding Facts
● Applications openDeadline
September 28, 2026
Who can apply
Last verified July 5, 2026 · Source: Grants.gov
Grant Details
Funding Range
Varies by cycle
Deadline
2026-09-28
Grant Type
federal
Application Cycle
Annual
Best For
Early-career faculty researchers focused on kidney cancer research with mentorship and networking goals
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for DoW Kidney Cancer, Academy of Kidney Cancer Investigators – Early-Career Scholar Award?
This award is designed for Early-Career Scholars (junior faculty) with strong research potential in kidney cancer. While specific eligibility criteria are not detailed in available materials, applicants should have preliminary data demonstrating the feasibility of their proposed research and approaches. Applicants will be paired with Designated Mentors who have established track records in kidney cancer research funding and publication. For complete eligibility requirements, visit the official Department of Defense or Kidney Cancer Research Program website.
How much funding does DoW Kidney Cancer, Academy of Kidney Cancer Investigators – Early-Career Scholar Award provide?
Specific funding amounts are not listed in currently available information. Award amounts may vary by fiscal year and funding cycle. Contact the Kidney Cancer Research Program or the Department of Defense directly for current FY26 award amounts and budget details.
How do I apply for DoW Kidney Cancer, Academy of Kidney Cancer Investigators – Early-Career Scholar Award?
Applications are submitted through the Department of Defense's grants management system. The application deadline for FY26 is September 28, 2026. Applicants should prepare their research proposal with preliminary data, career development plan, and mentor information. For detailed application instructions, submission requirements, and portal access, visit the official Kidney Cancer Research Program or Department of Defense website.
What can DoW Kidney Cancer, Academy of Kidney Cancer Investigators – Early-Career Scholar Award funding be used for?
This award supports kidney cancer research that demonstrates innovative approaches and potential to impact treatment development. The program emphasizes research quality and the Scholar's career development in kidney cancer research. Beyond research funding, the Academy provides mentorship, networking, and collaboration opportunities within a community of kidney cancer researchers. For specific allowable costs and budget categories, consult the official program guidelines.
Last updated: July 5, 2026