NCI Remains Committed to Cancer Research Training
, by Sanya Springfield, Ph.D., Nastaran Zahir, Ph.D., Douglas Lowy, M.D., Nelson Aguila, D.V.M.
At NCI, we recognize that the discoveries that will redefine cancer research are already taking shape in the hands of today’s trainees and early-stage investigators. By continuing to invest in their growth, we are cultivating the leaders and innovators who will chart the future of cancer research.
We are eager to start a new year. In 2026, NCI is strengthening our commitment to train the next generation of researchers and support a robust and skilled cancer research workforce. The future of cancer discovery is being shaped now, and it is our responsibility to ensure emerging talent is ready to lead it.
Cancer research training that supports everyone, from middle school students to established, independent scientists, is a fundamental pillar of NCI’s mission that was forged when the institute was started more than 80 years ago. Many of the field’s most influential leaders—pioneers in basic, clinical, translational, and population cancer research—began their careers through NCI extramural and intramural research training programs and fellowships.
Working through NCI’s Center for Cancer Training, Center to Reduce Cancer Health Disparities, and other divisions, offices, and centers, NCI leadership spent the past year identifying what new scientists need to succeed and what experienced investigators require to stay in the field. Based on those findings, we are working on a trans-NCI effort to redefine cancer research training for the future. We are committed to making it easier for trainees to work with NCI program staff to find funding opportunities, enhance their grant writing skills, apply for specific research training and career development programs, and access new training opportunities with the mentorship of world-class scientists in NCI laboratories, NCI-designated cancer center academic institutions, and other organizations.
Below is a glimpse of our holistic training commitments:
- We’re pleased to announce the NCI Career Development Workshop: Advancement to Research Independence to be held March 9, 2026. The free, virtual workshop is for prospective applicants and current awardees to gain the knowledge and skills to help them advance toward independent cancer research careers. Sign up here.
- The monthly NCI Rising Scholars Cancer Research Seminar Series is a virtual showcase of the research and important contributions made by NCI-supported postdoctoral scholars and early-career investigators. Check out our 2026 lineup of scheduled contributors and watch past presentations. It is free to subscribe, RSVP, and attend the seminar series.
- NCI’s Youth Enjoy Science (YES) is an institutional program for middle school, high school, and undergraduate students who show an interest in pursuing a science career. YES provides grants to universities and labs to bring young students into research labs to participate in creative and cutting-edge research activities. The experience of working together with researchers and seeing first-hand what a career in research might be like can inspire their future education and career choices.
- NCI’s Intramural Continuing Umbrella of Research Experiences (iCURE) program is for individual students and fellows to gain research experience at NCI. Now in its eighth year, a cohort of approximately 10 iCURE scholars, including postbaccalaureate fellows, graduate students, and postdoctoral fellows selected through a competitive application process, spend a year conducting research alongside NCI experts at three NIH campuses in Maryland: Bethesda, Frederick, and Rockville.
Unprecedented scientific advances in cancer research make this an exciting moment to enter the field and to build a long and rewarding career. The noble work you’ve chosen directly contributes to NCI’s mission to advance scientific knowledge and help all people live longer, healthier lives. That is a lifetime goal worth achieving, and we are dedicated to supporting you on your journey.
We encourage you to explore more opportunities at NCI Grants and Training.