ESMO launches €1 million program to advance academic cancer research

The initiative will support pragmatic studies with an international reach, addressing treatment optimization, streamlined treatment delivery, patient-centered care and healthcare sustainability. Eligible applicants include academic institutions, cancer centres, hospitals and cooperative research groups developing interventional clinical trials with the potential to improve patient outcomes.

Studies may be recruiting, approved but not yet recruiting, or awaiting regulatory and institutional approvals at the time of application.

Applications will be evaluated on scientific quality, practice-changing potential, patient impact, sustainability, feasibility and global relevance. Particular emphasis will be placed on projects capable of generating evidence that can inform routine clinical practice across diverse healthcare settings.

Consistent with ESMO's commitment to patient-centred research, applicants will be expected to describe how patients have been involved in study design and dissemination plans.

Through a total investment of €1,000,000, ESMO aims to facilitate studies that can improve outcomes for patients while contributing to more efficient and sustainable cancer care delivery worldwide.

Researchers interested in applying are encouraged to review the full Call for Applications, Applicant Guidance Document and Application Form.

Application Deadline: 1 November 2026

Source:

European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO)