Deadline: 15-Jun-2026
The King Hussein Cancer Award Promising Researcher Grant supports early-career cancer researchers in the Arab world by funding innovative, regionally relevant cancer research projects. The programme focuses on building scientific capacity, advancing novel oncology research, and strengthening mentorship-driven research careers.
The grant provides up to USD 100,000 for a 2-year project, with a structured two-stage selection process and mandatory mentorship from an experienced senior researcher.
Overview of the Promising Researcher Grant
The Promising Researcher Grant is part of the King Hussein Cancer Award and is designed to support:
- Early-career cancer researchers
- Innovative oncology research projects
- Regionally relevant cancer studies
- Capacity building in Arab research institutions
The programme emphasizes research that addresses:
- Cancer incidence in the Arab world
- Regional cancer patterns and challenges
- Novel scientific approaches in oncology
- Strengthening local research ecosystems
Funding Details
Key funding information:
- Grant value: Up to USD 100,000
- Duration: 2 years
- Award location: Amman, Jordan
- Funding focus: Cancer research in Arab region institutions
Research Focus Areas
The programme supports cancer research in any relevant discipline, including:
- Clinical oncology
- Cancer biology
- Epidemiology
- Molecular and genetic research
- Diagnostics and treatment innovation
- Public health and cancer prevention
Priority is given to projects that:
- Address regional cancer burden
- Provide locally relevant insights
- Contribute to Arab world research capacity
Who Is Eligible?
Applicants must:
- Be early-career researchers
- Hold an MD or PhD degree
- Be under 45 years of age
- Reside in the Arab world during the project
- Conduct research at an Arab-based institution
Mentorship Requirement
A key requirement of the grant is strong mentorship.
Applicants must:
- Identify an experienced mentor with at least 10 years of research experience
- Ensure the mentor has a strong publication record
- Obtain a formal commitment from the mentor
The mentor’s role includes:
- Guiding research development
- Supporting scientific execution
- Strengthening career development of the applicant
Application Process
The selection process occurs in two stages:
Stage 1: Initial Submission
Applicants submit:
- Curriculum vitae (CV)
- Letter of intent
- Brief research proposal summary
Stage 2: Full Proposal
Shortlisted candidates submit:
- Detailed research proposal
- Full methodology
- Complete study plan
Final selection is based on scientific review.
Assessment Criteria
Applications are evaluated based on:
- Scientific innovation and originality
- Relevance to cancer in the Arab world
- Research quality and methodology
- Feasibility of the project
- Strength of mentorship plan
- Potential contribution to regional research capacity
Programme Objectives
The grant aims to:
- Support emerging cancer researchers
- Promote innovative oncology research
- Strengthen research capacity in Arab institutions
- Improve understanding of regional cancer trends
- Build sustainable scientific careers
- Enhance mentorship culture in research
Why This Grant Matters
Cancer remains a major health challenge in the Arab world, with evolving needs in:
- Early detection
- Treatment innovation
- Epidemiological understanding
- Healthcare system strengthening
This programme addresses these challenges by:
- Supporting young scientific talent
- Encouraging region-specific cancer research
- Strengthening mentorship structures
- Building long-term research capacity
How to Apply
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility
Applicants must be:
- Under 45 years old
- MD or PhD holders
- Based in the Arab world
Step 2: Identify a Mentor
Secure a senior mentor with:
- At least 10 years of experience
- Strong publication record
- Formal commitment to the project
Step 3: Submit Initial Application
Include:
- CV
- Letter of intent
- Research summary
Step 4: Full Proposal (if shortlisted)
Provide:
- Detailed methodology
- Full research plan
- Scientific justification
Step 5: Selection and Award
Successful applicants receive:
- Funding up to USD 100,000
- Recognition at award ceremony in Amman
Conclusion
The King Hussein Cancer Award Promising Researcher Grant supports early-career scientists in the Arab world by funding innovative, regionally focused cancer research. Through strong mentorship, competitive funding, and a structured selection process, the programme helps build the next generation of oncology researchers while strengthening cancer research capacity across the region.
For more information, visit King Hussein Cancer Award.