AACR-Novocure Cancer Research Grant
The AACR-Novocure Cancer Research Grants represent a joint effort to promote and support independent investigators who are currently conducting innovative research focused on Tumor Treating Fields (TTFields; intermediate frequency, low intensity, alternating electric fields that disrupt cell division in cancer cells) as well as to encourage independent investigators to enter the TTFields research field.
These grants are intended to provide a deeper understanding of the mechanisms of action of this novel anti-cancer treatment modality and to accelerate the development of new treatment strategies to advance therapeutic options for cancer. The research proposed for funding may be basic or translational in nature; however, studies promoting the transition of in vitro work into in vivo systems, combination therapies involving TTFields, or translational projects bringing treatments involving TTFields into the clinic will be prioritized. The Inovitro® system (which will be provided by Novocure, if needed), must be included in the experimental design. Training on the use of Inovitro® system will be provided by Novocure, if needed. Note that inter-laboratory collaboration is encouraged, particularly for applicants new to TTFields research.
Each grant provides $350,000 over three years for expenses related to the research project, which may include salary and benefits of the grant recipient and any collaborators, postdoctoral or clinical research fellows, graduate students and/or research assistants; research/laboratory supplies; equipment; travel; publication charges for manuscripts that pertain directly to the funded project; other research expenses; and indirect costs.
Program Guidelines and Application Instructions are available for download. Please read all guidelines and instructions carefully before submitting an Application.
Research proposals must incorporate the Inovitro® system into the experimental design. For grant recipients who are affiliated with institutions that do not currently hold a Materials Transfer Agreement (MTA) with Novocure for use of its devices, Novocure will provide this system to complete the research. For additional details, please see the MTA and Terms and Conditions. If selected for funding, Novocure will work with the institution to execute an MTA.
Research projects should examine the use of TTFields as a therapeutic modality for cancer. Proposals may include 1) Basic and translational approaches, promoting the transition of TTFields in vitro work into in vivo systems, 2) Studies that link preclinical and clinical data, or 3) Studies with ability to translate into the clinic for cancer treatment.
Projects that focus on one or more of the areas outlined below are strongly encouraged, provided they incorporate the use of Inovitro® and/or inovivo® systems:
- 1. Key cancer-related signaling and cellular pathways.
- 2. Metabolic effects of TTFields.
- 3. Studies that include Omics data (genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics).
- 4. TTFields immunological aspects and the potential combination with immunotherapy.
- 5. Combinational studies with approved agents (preferably to include mechanistic aspects).
Applicants must be AACR Active members who are independent investigators and have a doctoral degree (PhD, MD, MD/PhD, or equivalent) in a related field and not currently be a candidate for a further doctoral degree.
Current and past recipients of an AACR-Novocure Tumor Treating Fields Research Grants are not eligible to apply. Collaborators or other participants of an active AACR Novocure grant (at the time of application deadline) are also not eligible to apply. Current recipients of an AACR-Novocure Career Development Award for Tumor Treating Fields Research Grant may apply if their current grant ends and their final progress reports have been submitted and approved before the start of the grant term of this funding opportunity.
Current AACR grantees may apply only if their current grant ends before the start of the grant term of this funding opportunity (December 1, 2025). Also, the terms of their current grant must require that the final progress reports be approved by the AACR. Please contact the AACR’s Research and Grants Administration (RGA) for confirmation before applying.
Employees or subcontractors of a U.S. government entity or for-profit private industry are not eligible. Employees or subcontractors of a U.S. government entity or for‐profit private industry may serve as Collaborators, but no grant funds may be directed toward these individuals.
There are no citizenship requirements; however, by submitting an application for this grant, an applicant applying from an institution located in a country in which they are not a citizen or a permanent resident assures that the visa status will provide sufficient time to complete the project and grant term at the institution from which they applied.
Applicants must be AACR Active members in good standing (dues paid for the current year). Please be informed that AACR offers reduced membership due rates for applicants from countries with emerging economies based on the World Bank listing. Nonmembers interested in this grant opportunity must submit a satisfactory application for AACR membership by the application deadline. Nonmembers can apply for membership online. Please review the Membership Categories for the category that best fits your qualifications. Nonmembers must obtain a statement of support from a nominator who is an Active AACR member in good standing (dues paid for the current year). Nonmembers requiring assistance with finding a nominator may email membership@aacr.org and include your geographical location to receive a list of members in your area to contact for nominations. For more information check the membership FAQ. Members can renew their membership through myAACR. You will need your logon (email address) and password to access the member portal. If you require assistance logging in, please submit a help form. Lapsed members must be members in good standing by the application deadline and should contact the Membership Department at membership@aacr.org for assistance.
The AACR requires applicants to complete an online Application submission by 1:00 p.m. U.S. Eastern Time on Monday, June 30, 2025, using the ProposalCentral website at https://proposalcentral.com.
Program Guidelines and Application Instructions are available in PDF format.