The National Cancer Institute's Center to Reduce Cancer Health Disparities (CRCHD) is planning to publish a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for the Continuing Umbrella of Research Experiences (CURE) Academic Career Excellence (ACE) Award, under the K32 mechanism. This specific forecasted opportunity requires an independent clinical trial and is intended to support early postdoctoral fellows in cancer research. It aims to enhance the pipeline of professionals positioned to address critical health-related research needs in the U.S., specifically within cancer-related fields. This forecast is provided to give potential applicants time to prepare strong proposals before the NOFO is officially posted.

The purpose of the CURE ACE Award is to provide postdoctoral training for individuals from diverse backgrounds conducting cancer research. The award is designed for candidates in the late pre-doctoral or early postdoctoral stages who demonstrate a commitment to careers in cancer research. It is inclusive of individuals from underrepresented backgrounds and those who bring unique life experiences or perspectives to the biomedical workforce, including geographic, socioeconomic, institutional, and cultural diversity. Importantly, preliminary data is not required for eligibility, making the opportunity more accessible.

Funding from this opportunity will support comprehensive research training in basic biomedical, clinical, behavioral, or translational cancer research. Applicants must identify a postdoctoral research mentor and outline a robust research and training plan prior to or shortly after starting the postdoctoral appointment. Research areas covered under this grant span the full breadth of cancer research, and grantees must submit their applications through the institution where their postdoctoral work will occur.

Eligible applicants include a broad range of institutions and organizations, such as federally recognized Native American tribal governments, state and local governments, public and private higher education institutions, nonprofits with 501(c)(3) status, and both small and other for-profit organizations. Additional clarification on eligibility is expected upon publication of the full NOFO. The grant does not require cost sharing or matching.

Applicants are advised that the estimated application due date is June 12, 2025. The official funding announcement is expected to be published on April 1, 2025. The award date and project start date are both anticipated to be March 2, 2026. No additional documents or application questions have been released yet, but applicants should monitor the NIH and Grants.gov websites for updates.

Evaluation criteria and application review details have not yet been released. However, based on standard NIH practices, proposals will likely be assessed on scientific merit, training plan quality, applicant potential, and alignment with program goals. Important deadlines include the forecasted posting date of April 1, 2025, and the application deadline of June 12, 2025. The opportunity will be archived on April 1, 2025, if not officially released by then.