Paul Calabresi Career Development Award for Clinical Oncology (K12 Clinical Trial Not Allowed)
Can you apply?
This grant is for early-career clinician-scientists pursuing research training in clinical and translational cancer research. Applicants must be U.S. citizens, nationals, or permanent residents affiliated with eligible research institutions. Scholars cannot lead independent clinical trials but may participate in clinical trials under mentor supervision. Foreign organizations and non-U.S. entities are not eligible; however, foreign components of U.S. organizations are allowed.
Program description
The goal of the Paul Calabresi Career Development Award for Clinical Oncology (PCACO) is to increase the number of clinician-scientists trained in clinical and translational cancer research, and to promote their career development as cancer researchers. This Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) does not allow Scholars to propose to lead an independent clinical trial, but does allow Scholars to propose research experience in a clinical trial led by a mentor or co-mentor.
Who can apply
Eligible applicants
How to apply
Application links
Key dates & requirements
Required documents
- SF-424 (R&R) Application Form
- Project Narrative (Research Plan)
- Mentor Letter of Support
- Institutional Commitment Letter
- Biosketch for Scholar and Mentor(s)
- Budget and Budget Justification
- NIH Subaward Budget Form (if applicable)
Program contact
- 👤 National Institutes of Health
- 📧 NCIK12Calabresi@nih.gov
- 📞 301-402-2541
Funding track record
Recent awards under CFDA 93.398 from the last 3 years — real organizations that won funding through this same program.
Top 10 Largest Recent Awards
-
$23,853,515
-
$17,454,036
-
$15,407,472
-
$14,410,208
-
$14,234,718
-
$14,219,981
-
$14,192,257
-
$13,766,537
-
$13,734,930
-
$13,123,233
Top States by Funding
- CA 14 awards $114.1M
- MA 10 awards $104.5M
- TX 9 awards $101.0M
- NY 9 awards $65.8M
- PA 7 awards $60.4M
Source: USAspending.gov — federal spending transparency. Data covers last 3 years.
Funding history
Annual funding for this program — Federal obligations (CFDA 93.398). How funding has trended year over year.
| 2024 | $228,173,992 | |
| 2025 | $213,201,522 | |
| 2026 est. | $135,455,000 |
FAQ
Who is eligible to apply for the Paul Calabresi Career Development Award?
Early-career clinician-scientists with MD, DO, DVM, or other clinical degree who are U.S. citizens, nationals, or permanent residents. You must be affiliated with an eligible NIH research institution.
Can I propose to lead my own clinical trial?
No. This NOFO specifically does not allow scholars to lead independent clinical trials. You may participate in clinical trials led by your mentor.
What is the geographic scope of this award?
Only U.S. institutions are eligible. Foreign organizations cannot apply, though foreign collaborators and components may participate.
What are typical funding amounts and project duration?
This is a career development award typically ranging from $50,000-$100,000 annually for 3-5 years, though exact amounts vary by award.
Can I reapply if my first application is rejected?
Yes. You may reapply in future funding cycles. NIH encourages revision and resubmission based on reviewer feedback.
💡 Tips for applicants
- Develop a strong mentoring relationship with your primary mentor. NIH emphasizes the quality of mentoring and mentor credentials in review.
- Align your research with the NCI's cancer research priorities and translational oncology goals. Show clear relevance to cancer science.
- Clearly describe your timeline for independence. Demonstrate how this award builds your career as an independent cancer researcher.
- Include a detailed research plan that shows feasibility within your institution. Be specific about your role, mentor involvement, and expected outcomes.
- Highlight your commitment to clinical and translational research. Show balance between clinical practice and dedicated research time.
⚠️ Common mistakes
Proposing to lead an independent clinical trial. Applicants must work under mentor supervision. Weak mentoring plan or unclear mentor qualifications. Choosing mentors without strong track records in cancer research. Vague research timeline without clear milestones toward independence.
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