Deadline: 30-Sep-2026
The Geoffrey Ogram Memorial Research Grant Program supports research focused on the early detection and causes (etiology) of lung cancer across different populations. The programme prioritises innovative screening methods, including blood-based testing and early detection in individuals not currently eligible for standard screening.
In 2026, up to two grants of CAD 25,000 each will be awarded to support direct research costs. The programme emphasizes practical relevance to Canadians living with lung cancer and encourages applications from new and early-stage researchers.
What Is the Geoffrey Ogram Memorial Research Grant?
The Geoffrey Ogram Memorial Research Grant is a competitive research funding programme designed to accelerate new knowledge in lung cancer detection and population-based cancer research.
The programme focuses on:
- Early detection of lung cancer
- Innovative screening and diagnostic methods
- Understanding lung cancer causes across demographics
- Improving outcomes for patients through applied research
Research Focus Areas
The grant supports two main research directions:
Early Detection of Lung Cancer
Projects may focus on:
- Screening innovations
- Blood-based testing methods
- Early diagnostic tools
- Detection in individuals not meeting current screening criteria
- Improving accessibility of early diagnosis methods
Lung Cancer Etiology
Projects may study:
- Causes of lung cancer in different populations
- Risk factors in light ex-smokers
- Lung cancer in non-smokers
- Demographic and population-based differences in disease development
Priority is given to research with:
- Direct relevance to Canadians living with lung cancer
- Practical and translational outcomes
Funding Details
Key funding information:
- Number of awards: Up to 2 grants
- Grant amount: CAD 25,000 each
- Purpose: Direct research costs only
- Indirect costs: Not eligible
Eligible expenses include:
- Research supplies
- Equipment
- Research-related operational costs
- Wages (if justified within project scope)
Important note:
- The funding is a research grant, not a fellowship
Who Is Eligible?
Eligible applicants include:
- Researchers with academic or research appointments
- Principal investigators capable of independently conducting research
- Researchers authorized to supervise trainees
- Individuals able to publish research outputs
Additional eligibility notes:
- Appointment must be active by funding start date
- Must comply with institutional research policies
Fellows may apply if:
- Supervised by a qualified principal investigator
Strongly encouraged applicants:
- Early-career researchers
- New investigators
- Pilot project researchers
- Proof-of-concept study teams
- Basic science and translational researchers
What Types of Projects Are Supported?
The programme supports:
- Pilot research studies
- Early-stage clinical or translational research
- Proof-of-concept studies
- Innovative diagnostic research
- Population-based cancer studies
Projects should:
- Demonstrate clear scientific rationale
- Address unmet needs in lung cancer detection or understanding
- Show potential for real-world application
How to Apply
- Identify a research focus aligned with lung cancer detection or etiology.
- Develop a detailed research proposal.
- Prepare a clear and justified budget (direct costs only).
- Demonstrate institutional eligibility and appointment status.
- Submit application before the deadline.
- Provide evidence of feasibility and relevance to patient outcomes.
Tips for Applicants
- Emphasize innovation in early detection methods.
- Clearly justify financial need and budget allocation.
- Highlight relevance to non-traditional screening populations.
- Demonstrate potential impact on patient outcomes.
- Focus on feasibility within a small grant framework.
FAQ
How much funding is available?
Up to two grants of CAD 25,000 each.
What is the main focus of the grant?
Early detection and causes of lung cancer across different populations.
Can indirect costs be included?
No, indirect costs are not eligible.
Is this a fellowship?
No, it is a research grant only.
Who is encouraged to apply?
Early-career researchers, new investigators, and pilot study teams.
Conclusion
The Geoffrey Ogram Memorial Research Grant Program supports innovative and early-stage research aimed at improving lung cancer detection and understanding its causes across populations. By funding targeted pilot studies, the programme helps accelerate practical research with direct relevance to patient outcomes and public health.
For more information, visit Lung Cancer Canada.