The Operating Grants competition supports fundamental and early translational cancer research across Canada, funding projects that advance prevention, diagnostics, treatment innovation, and cancer survivorship science. Researchers can receive up to $70,000 per year for two years to pursue high-impact discoveries that align with national cancer research priorities. The program encourages applications from both emerging and established investigators through a rigorous peer-review process that ensures scientific excellence.

Operating Grants Competition for Cancer Research: Funding for Canadian Researchers

Overview

The Operating Grants competition provides financial support for high-quality cancer research projects in Canada. It focuses on fundamental mechanisms of cancer, early translational studies, prevention science, environmental risk factors, and survivorship challenges following treatment. The program aims to accelerate discoveries that improve cancer understanding, diagnosis, and patient outcomes.

Key Focus Areas

1. Fundamental / Basic Cancer Research

Studies that explore cellular, molecular, or genetic mechanisms driving cancer development and progression.

2. Cancer Prevention Research

Research that investigates biological mechanisms underlying cancer risk, including:

• Genetic predispositions

• Lifestyle-related factors

• Diet-related risks

• Early biological pathways that could guide prevention strategies

3. Early Translational Cancer Research

Projects that bridge basic science and clinical application, such as:

• Preclinical studies

• Cellular or animal models

• Biomarkers for diagnosis and prognosis

• Imaging techniques and therapeutic innovations

4. Environmental Causes of Cancer

Research focused on:

• Viral causes of cancer

• Pollutants and toxins

• Occupational hazards

• Lifestyle-related environmental exposures

5. Cancer Survivorship Research (in collaboration with CIHR)

Studies exploring long-term complications, toxicities, and health risks survivors face post-treatment.

Why It Matters

The Operating Grants competition is central to advancing Canada’s cancer research capacity. It:

• Supports innovation from lab discovery to early clinical relevance

• Funds neglected but essential areas such as survivorship and environmental risks

• Strengthens the national scientific ecosystem through competitive peer review

• Enables researchers to explore high-impact ideas that may lead to breakthroughs

Who Is Eligible?

Researchers must:

• Be based at a Canadian institution (university, research institute, hospital)

• Have the capacity to lead the proposed research

• Conduct work within the defined thematic areas
  Both emerging and established investigators are encouraged to apply.

Funding Details

• Duration: 2 years

• Amount: Up to $70,000 per year

• Total Maximum: $140,000 per project
  Funds support project-related research costs, personnel, experimental studies, and scientific resources.

How to Apply

Step-by-Step Process

1. Review the full competition guidelines and eligibility requirements.

2. Prepare a structured research proposal, including:

   • Project summary and objectives

   • Background and significance

   • Methodology and research plan

   • Expected outcomes and impact

3. Include institutional approvals, biosafety certifications, or ethics documentation as required.

4. Submit the application through the designated online portal before the annual deadline.

5. Proposals undergo peer review based on scientific merit, feasibility, and originality.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Submitting vague or overly broad research questions

• Weak methodological detail or unclear experimental design

• Insufficient alignment with the defined thematic focus areas

• Missing institutional approvals or required documentation

• Underestimating time or resource needs for a two-year project

FAQ

1. Can early-career researchers apply?

Yes. The program welcomes applications from new investigators as well as established researchers.

2. Are clinical trials eligible?

No. The competition supports fundamental and early translational research only, not full clinical trials.

3. Can teams apply, or only individual researchers?

Teams, co-investigators, and collaborative groups may apply as long as a principal investigator is based in Canada.

4. Are international collaborators allowed?

Yes, but the primary applicant and majority of the work must be based in Canada.

5. Can the grant cover equipment purchases?

Only small-scale research-related equipment; large infrastructure purchases are not supported.

6. What determines funding decisions?

Scientific merit, originality, feasibility, reviewer evaluation, and alignment with program priorities.

7. When does the competition open?

It typically opens annually; applicants should check the official call each year for exact dates.

Conclusion

The Operating Grants competition provides vital support for cancer researchers across Canada, enabling innovative scientific work from basic mechanisms to early translational discoveries and survivorship research. With strong eligibility criteria, meaningful funding, and rigorous peer review, it remains a cornerstone program for advancing cancer science and improving long-term outcomes for patients.

For more information, visit Cancer Research Society.