The FY18 PRCRP Horizon Award supports junior-level scientists in conducting impactful research with the mentorship of an experienced cancer researcher (i.e., Mentor). The Horizon Award challenges junior scientists to develop and implement research in the cancer field. This opportunity allows for junior investigators to develop a research project, investigate a problem or question in the field of cancer, and further their intellectual development as a cancer researcher of the future. Under this award mechanism, the junior investigator is considered the Principal Investigator (PI), and the application should focus on the PI’s research and career development. It should be clear that the proposed research is intellectually designed by the PI with assistance from the Mentor. Preliminary data are not required. However, logical reasoning and a sound scientific rationale for the proposed research must be demonstrated. Clinical trials will not be supported by this mechanism.
Key elements of the Horizon Award are as follows:
• Principal Investigator: Both predoctoral candidates and postdoctoral fellows are eligible according to the following definitions:
○ A predoctoral candidate within 2 years of completing required graduate coursework, having completed all laboratory rotations, successfully passed qualifying examinations (excluding time in residency or on family medical leave), and is working in his/her Mentor’s laboratory by the time of the application submission deadline, or
○ A postdoctoral fellow within 3 years of completion of his/her terminal degree (excluding time in residency or on family medical leave) and working in the Mentor’s laboratory at the time of the application submission deadline. The PI’s record of accomplishments (including but not limited to publications, awards, and research recognition) will be evaluated regarding his/her potential for contributing to the FY18 PRCRP Topic Area(s) the proposed research addresses.
• Mentor: The Mentor must be an experienced cancer researcher as demonstrated by a strong record of active funding and publications. In addition, the Mentor must demonstrate a commitment to advancing the PI’s career in cancer research. The Mentor’s record of accomplishments (such as publications, patents, presentations, etc.) should include documentation of significant contribution to cancer research.
There are no citizenship requirements for this award.
Source: Funding Opportunities-FY18 PRCRP, Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs (CDMRP), US DoD