Summary: Supports the addition of independent, early career investigators (Scholars) who are no more than seven years from their initial faculty appointment to the Melanoma Research Program (MRP) Melanoma Academy. The Melanoma Academy is a unique, interactive virtual academy focused on bringing together established investigators and Scholars to develop a network of successful, highly productive melanoma researchers in a collaborative research and career development environment.  

Distinctive Features:

·        This award mechanism focuses on both the Scholar’s research and career potential in the melanoma field.

·        Scholars must designate a Career Guide. The Career Guide must have a track record of successful mentorship coupled with a strong record of funding and publications in melanoma.

·        Preliminary data are not required.

Funding Details: The Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs expects to allot roughly $1.54M to fund approximately two Melanoma Academy Scholar Award applications with total cost caps of $0.77M per award. The maximum period of performance is 3 years. It is anticipated that awards made from this fiscal year 2026 (FY26) funding opportunity will be funded with FY26 funds, which will expire for use on September 30, 2032. Awards supported with FY26 funds will be made no later than September 30, 2027.

Miscellaneous

• Unrestricted