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NIH Science-Driven Research Project (RP1)

Early-Onset Cancers: Investigating Etiology, Mechanisms, and Early Detection Strategies

Funds research into what is driving more non-hereditary cancers in 18-to-49-year-olds, and how to catch them earlier.

Between cyclesNational Institutes of HealthGlobal

Non-hereditary cancer is rising in people between 18 and 49, and there is still no settled account of why. This notice funds finding out.

Three questions are named directly. What modifiable exposures are driving the rise in early-onset cancers, and how do they vary across patient groups. What biological mechanisms and host responses sit behind the increase. And how people at higher risk can be id

Research into the etiology and underlying biological mechanisms of sporadic non-hereditary early-onset cancers (ages 18-49), including modifiable exposures, host-response mechanisms, and strategies to identify people at increased risk more effectively — submitted as either an exploratory/developmental project of up to two years or a research project of four to five years. Clinical trials are optional.

CycleiHow often this grant runs — e.g. annually, on a rolling basis, or a one-off call.Multiple per year
Next deadlineiThe next date applications are due. Rolling means you can apply any time.5 Oct 2026
Decision timeiTypical time from the deadline to the funder's decision.26 weeks
Project durationiHow long the funded work is expected to run.
Award typeiThe form of funding — grant, equity, loan, tax credit, etc.Grant
Match fundingiThe share of project costs you must cover yourself. 0% = fully funded.
Funding pooliThe total budget available across all awards in this round.

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Last verified: 25 Aug 2026Funder reference: PAR-26-150Source: www.grants.gov