About this grant
This notice of funding opportunity (NOFO) will invite applications for the Research Specialist Award (R50), which provides salary support for exceptional, non-tenure track scientists working in research laboratories and core facilities who make essential contributions to cancer research. The R50 is intended to support stable, long-term research careers for highly skilled scientists who contribute to NCI-funded research programs but do not serve as independent investigators. Research specialists are highly trained, highly productive scientists who are committed to a research career at the bench or dry lab. Working within laboratories, core facilities, and shared resources, they provide critical expertise, technical leadership, and continuity that strengthen the research infrastructure and enhance the productivity of cancer research across basic, translational, clinical, and population sciences. Eligible applicants must have an advanced degree, have contributed to their cancer research program for at least two years, and devote at least half their time to NCI-funded research. Applicants must not have sought independent investigator funding in the last five years. The R50 offers salary support and travel funds to provide both recognition and stability for research specialists whose contributions are essential to the cancer research enterprise. It is anticipated that only outstanding scientists who are committed to a research career within the context of an existing NCI-funded research program, but not serve as independent investigators, will be competitive for this award.
Who can apply
Other Eligible ApplicantsFaith-based or Community-based Organizations;Regional Organizations.
What it funds
How to apply
Read the full announcement on Grants.gov before you start. Federal applications are submitted through Grants.gov (or the agency's own system) and require a Unique Entity ID from SAM.gov. Registration can take several weeks, so start early. Contact: R50 Mailbox · NCIR50@mail.nih.gov · 240-255-0917
What are the odds for a first-time applicant?
Mostly repeat grantees: only 8% of awards go to new applicants. Apply with a strong track record or a partner who has won before. Based on 52 new awards in FY2023–25. Organizations under $1M in revenue won 0% of the awards that went to nonprofits. The median award is $4,637,432. Expect about 170 days between posting and deadline.
Who can apply for NCI Research Specialist Award for Core and Laboratory-based Scientists (R50 Clinical Trial Not Allowed)?
Eligible applicants: Private colleges & universities; For-profit organizations; Native American tribal organizations; Special district governments; Public & Indian housing authorities; 501(c)(3) nonprofits; County governments; City or township governments; Federally recognized tribal governments; Small businesses; Others (see eligibility text); Nonprofits without 501(c)(3) status; Public & state-controlled colleges; Independent school districts; State governments. Other Eligible ApplicantsFaith-based or Community-based Organizations;Regional Organizations.
When is the deadline?
Applications are due Nov 20, 2026. Always confirm the time and time zone in the official announcement.
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