The NCI Predoctoral to Postdoctoral Fellow Transition Award (F99/K00) is designed to support the career development of outstanding graduate students with a strong interest in independent cancer research careers. Administered by the National Cancer Institute (NCI), this award provides a structured pathway for graduate students to transition from their doctoral research (F99 phase) to postdoctoral training (K00 phase). The ultimate goal is to facilitate a smooth and productive shift to postdoctoral research, encouraging a career trajectory towards independent cancer research.

The F99 phase of the award provides support for one to two years of dissertation research, allowing candidates to complete their doctoral research and prepare for their transition to postdoctoral work. In this phase, applicants must propose a research training plan that includes final experiments and the selection of a postdoctoral mentor. After completing their PhD, the K00 phase offers up to four years of mentored postdoctoral research and career development focused on cancer research. Applicants will need to secure a postdoctoral position at a new institution to activate this phase.

The funding opportunity offers financial support for up to six years, covering both phases. The F99 phase includes stipends, tuition, fees, and institutional allowances for research-related expenses. The K00 phase provides salary support starting at $60,000 per year, with annual increases, as well as funds for research development costs, travel, and other related expenses. Stipends and allowances for the F99 phase align with those provided by the Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Award (NRSA) program.

Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens, nationals, or permanent residents who are currently enrolled in a PhD program in the biomedical, behavioral, or clinical sciences at a U.S. institution. Applicants should be in the third or fourth year of their graduate program and recognized by their institutions for their potential to pursue an independent cancer research career. Institutions may nominate only one candidate per year. Individuals from underrepresented backgrounds, including racial and ethnic minorities and those with disabilities, are especially encouraged to apply.

Applications for the F99/K00 award are due annually in November, with specific deadlines depending on the year. The application process requires detailed research and career development plans for both the F99 and K00 phases, including a nomination letter from the applicant’s institution, biographical sketches, reference letters, and a clear transition plan to a postdoctoral research position.

Applications will be evaluated based on several criteria, including the applicant’s potential for a successful career in cancer research, the quality of the proposed research training plan, the strength of the sponsor(s) and mentorship, and the institutional environment. Awards are contingent upon the availability of funds, and successful applicants will be notified of their awards following peer review and NCI’s advisory council review.

This award is an excellent opportunity for graduate students committed to cancer research to receive both financial support and structured mentorship as they transition into the next phase of their research careers.