Deadline: 06-Feb-2026
The Leukemia Research Foundation Grant Program supports new investigator research projects aimed at advancing leukemia treatment and understanding. Funding of up to $150,000 over two years is available for independent faculty-level investigators globally, with consideration for career interruptions. The program emphasizes early-career researchers, promotes diversity, and excludes applicants with significant existing funding or prior foundation awards.
Overview
The Leukemia Research Foundation Grant Program provides financial support to new investigators conducting impactful leukemia research. It aims to strengthen early-career investigators and promote innovation in leukemia research globally.
Program Objectives
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Support independent investigators within seven years of their first faculty-level appointment
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Encourage research that advances understanding or treatment of leukemia
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Accommodate career interruptions due to family leave, military service, or health issues
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Promote diversity and inclusion in the research community
Funding Details
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Maximum award: $150,000 over two years
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Salary support: Not permitted for principal investigators
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Capital equipment: Funding capped at $7,500
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Research travel: Up to $3,000 allowed
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Funding overlap: All other grants must be disclosed; applicants with $175,000+ per year in active direct costs (excluding KO8, R00, R99 grants) are ineligible
Who Is Eligible?
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Independent faculty-level investigators at non-profit academic institutions
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Investigators with full control over laboratory space, personnel, and research activities
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Applicants globally are eligible, provided they meet criteria
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Exclusions: Fellows, NIH RO1 recipients, VA Merit Award holders, prior foundation new investigator award recipients, co-PIs, and renewal applications
Career Considerations
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Adjustments are made for career interruptions due to family, health, or military service
How to Apply / How It Works
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Letter of Intent (LOI): Submit by February 6, 2026, via Proposal Central
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Full Application: Invitation-only submission due April 13, 2026
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Award Notification: Expected by June 30, 2026
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Submission Platform: All materials submitted through Proposal Central (account required)
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Review Process: Independent Medical Advisory Board evaluates full applications and makes recommendations
Application Requirements
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Submit one LOI per principal investigator; co-PIs are not allowed
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Provide detailed research plan, methodology, and potential impact
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Disclose all current and pending funding
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Applications from minority and underrepresented researchers are encouraged
Tips for Applicants
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Ensure independence in research and supervisory roles
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Clearly demonstrate impact on leukemia research
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Provide a comprehensive funding disclosure to avoid conflicts
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Highlight any career interruptions to receive proper consideration
FAQ
1. Who qualifies as a “new investigator”?
Independent faculty-level researchers within seven years of their first faculty-level appointment.
2. Can international researchers apply?
Yes, applicants outside the U.S. are eligible, provided they meet all other criteria.
3. Can co-investigators be included?
No, co-PIs are not permitted; only one PI per application is allowed.
4. What costs are eligible for funding?
Eligible costs include research activities, personnel supervision, and limited research travel. Capital equipment over $7,500 and PI salary support are not covered.
5. Are prior Leukemia Research Foundation awardees eligible?
No, previous recipients of the new investigator award cannot apply.
6. How are applications reviewed?
The Medical Advisory Board conducts an independent review and funding decisions are based on their recommendations.
7. Will applicants receive feedback?
No individual feedback or written reviews are provided due to high application volumes.
Conclusion
The Leukemia Research Foundation Grant Program provides critical early-career support for investigators pursuing innovative leukemia research. By offering targeted funding, accommodating career interruptions, and promoting global participation and diversity, the program strengthens the pipeline of independent researchers capable of advancing knowledge and improving outcomes in leukemia care.
For more information, visit Leukemia Research Foundation.