Program Description
In 1998, the Institute established the Predoctoral Emphasis Pathway in Tumor Immunology to complement its Postdoctoral Fellowship and Investigator Award Programs. 

The aim of the Predoctoral Program is to attract an even younger generation of budding talent to the field of cancer immunology. It is primarily intended to introduce graduate students to basic research principles in the field of tumor immunology, excite them about research possibilities, and set them on the path to a lifelong career in the field.

Students are given the opportunity to interact with respected tumor immunologists, from among whom they will choose mentors for their doctoral research and learn about the advances and trends in cancer immunology.

Eligibility
Granted to major universities with a core group of faculty members who have interest, expertise, and ongoing research activities in cancer immunology.

Faculty must commit to establishing a cancer immunology program, including dedicated lecture courses, student-led tutorials, and journal clubs for graduate students competitively chosen to participate.

Award Amount
Provides $450,000 over four-year period. Payment schedule structured to allow admission of four students in year one and an additional two students in year two. Universities must reapply for renewal in the third year to maintain the program at six students annually.

Deadline
Applications are due March 1 annually. Candidates are notified of CRI review committee’s decision by mid-June.

Program Updates
The Institute currently is accepting only renewal applications from universities that are already funded by a CRI Predoctoral Emphasis Pathway grant. However, we may reopen this program to expansion to other universities in the future. If you would like to receive updates on the status of this program, please email us at grants@cancerresearch.org or call toll-free (800) 99-CANCER.