INSPIRE Research Challenge for Early Career Cancer Researchers

Donor Name: World Cancer Research Fund

Reference URL:https://www.wcrf.org/research-policy/our-grant-programmes/inspire-research-challenge/

The INSPIRE Research Challenge provides grants to early career researchers worldwide for innovative projects advancing cancer prevention, treatment, and survivorship.

The INSPIRE Research Challenge was established by the World Cancer Research Fund International, in partnership with leading cancer research organizations, to accelerate progress in cancer prevention, treatment, and survivorship by supporting the next generation of scientific leaders. This initiative responds to evidence gaps and strategic objectives identified through the Global Cancer Update Programme and consultation with scientific stakeholders.

For the 2026–27 grant call, the programme focuses on six priority areas: integrative oncology (including diet, physical activity, body composition, sleep, and supportive-care interventions), lifestyle and weight-loss medications, early-onset cancers, early-life exposures, ingested contaminants in food and water, and ultra-processed foods. Projects must address at least one of these areas and may span more than one where scientifically justified. Proposals should have direct relevance to cancer prevention, treatment, or survivorship and may address any or all stages of the cancer journey, with a focus on modifiable factors such as diet, nutrition, body composition, physical activity, sleep, psychological stress, immune function, ingested contaminants, and pathogens.

Funding of up to £75,000 (approximately $95,250 USD) is available for a period of up to 12 months. Funds may be used for direct research expenses, including salaries, supplies, essential equipment, Open Access publication fees, travel, services, and Patient and Public Involvement and Engagement (PPIE) costs. Overhead expenses are not covered. All requested costs must be itemised and justified, and salary requests must state the percentage of time to be spent on the project.

Eligible applicants are early career researchers (ECRs) who were awarded their PhD or equivalent higher research degree between 2 and 7 years ago (full-time equivalent), accounting for career breaks. Applicants must be employed on a research contract at a university, medical school, hospital, or research institute. The programme is open to researchers globally. Applicants must demonstrate conceptual independence from their supervisor(s) and provide a letter of support confirming their ability to conduct independent research. Only one application per Lead Applicant per grant cycle is permitted, and a maximum of three applications will be accepted from any one institution per cycle. Current WCRF Network grant holders are not eligible to apply.

For more information, visit World Cancer Research Fund.

Add Ntchito.com to your Homescreen!