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The Start-Up Grant is a funding opportunity offered by the AIRC - Italian Association for Cancer Research, aimed at fostering new research units in the field of cancer research. This grant is designed for talented young scientists who are looking to establish themselves as independent investigators in Italy after gaining experience abroad.

Funding Details

The Start-Up Grant provides substantial financial support for researchers in the field of cancer research. The grant is available for a maximum of € 250,000 per year and is intended to support the establishment of new research units led by promising scientists. The funding is structured over a five-year period, commencing on January 2, 2027, with an initial three years of support, followed by two additional years contingent upon the demonstration of scientific independence and productivity.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the Start-Up Grant, applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria, which include:

• Holding a PhD or a Specialty degree obtained in 2014 or later.
• Having significant experience in a competitive laboratory outside of Italy, with no more than 12 months of work in Italy at the time of the application deadline.
• Having at least two primary research papers as first/co-first, last/co-last, or corresponding/co-corresponding author, published or accepted in the last five years.

Research Focus

The primary focus of the Start-Up Grant is on cancer research. The program aims to support young scientists who are committed to advancing knowledge and innovation in this critical area of biomedical research. The proposed scientific activities must be conducted in a research organization located in Italy, which is dedicated to independent biomedical research, such as universities, hospitals, or other research centers.

Application Process

Interested candidates must submit their applications by the deadline of March 3, 2026. The application process involves a pre-submission inquiry, where applicants must demonstrate their qualifications and research plans. Successful candidates will be expected to establish their own laboratories and lead research efforts that contribute significantly to the field of cancer research.

About AIRC

The AIRC - Italian Association for Cancer Research is a prominent organization dedicated to funding and promoting cancer research in Italy. Through initiatives like the Start-Up Grant, AIRC aims to nurture the next generation of researchers and foster innovative approaches to cancer treatment and prevention. More information about the organization and its funding opportunities can be found on their official website.

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