The National Cancer Institute (NCI), under the National Institutes of Health (NIH), is reissuing the "Youth Enjoy Science (YES) Research Education Program" funding opportunity. This program, administered under the R25 Education Projects mechanism, aims to increase interest and retention in biomedical research careers among students with limited exposure to such fields. The program targets grades 6-12 students, undergraduates, and their teachers or faculty mentors through a combination of hands-on research experiences, curriculum or methods development, and community outreach activities.

The primary objective of this initiative is to foster awareness and interest in cancer research through early intervention. The program expects applicants to design institutional programs that provide structured, mentored cancer research experiences, particularly for underrepresented or underserved student populations. These experiences should not only support participants in scientific research activities but also promote networking, education on research ethics, and academic skill-building. Teachers and undergraduate faculty participants are expected to develop instructional methods to apply their research exposure in classroom settings.

Funding may be used to support salary for program leadership and staff, costs associated with participant research and educational activities, and outreach efforts to the participants' families and communities. Each participant can be supported with up to $4,500 for personnel costs and up to $1,500 for other education-related expenses. The maximum direct cost is $400,000 per year, and project periods may last up to five years. A strong institutional commitment is required, including adequate facilities and personnel support.

Eligible applicants include a wide range of U.S.-based entities such as public and private higher education institutions, nonprofits, local and state governments, and other educational or community-based organizations. Foreign organizations and components are not eligible. The program encourages collaboration within the YES community and supports applications that address cancer health disparities through interdisciplinary research. Applications must include plans for robust evaluation and tracking of participants for at least 15 years post-program.

The application process requires adherence to the NIH’s standard submission platforms (e.g., ASSIST, Grants.gov). While letters of intent are not mandatory, they are encouraged. Detailed application components must include a comprehensive research education plan, advisory committee structure, evaluation strategy, and plans for instruction in responsible conduct of research. The program is not open to clinical trial proposals.

The next application due date is September 27, 2024, with subsequent cycles closing on September 26, 2025, and September 28, 2026. Applications are due by 5:00 PM local time of the applicant organization. The earliest possible start date for projects is July 2025. This funding opportunity will remain active until September 29, 2026.