#USA #San Francisco #ASCO #Parker Institute #Conquer Cancer

Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy Collaborates with ASCO

Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy (PICI) has recently announced a strategic collaboration with the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO). The partnership aims to promote and fund innovative research in the field of cancer immunotherapy through the Conquer Cancer® Endowed Young Investigator Award (YIA). This initiative emphasizes the importance of nurturing emerging talent in oncology by providing financial assistance to early-career oncologists who are looking to make significant contributions in cancer treatment.

Investment in Future Leaders

In an era where cancer therapies are rapidly evolving, PICI sees a critical need to empower the next generation of cancer researchers. Annually, the award will provide a grant of $50,000 to selected candidates who demonstrate promise in advancing clinical oncology research. The goal is to facilitate a transition for young investigators from training or fellowship programs to faculty positions, thereby ensuring the continuity of high-quality research in cancer treatment.

Karen Knudsen, the CEO of PICI, emphasized the importance of this collaboration, stating, "We’re excited to work with ASCO and Conquer Cancer to support the development of future leaders in cancer immunotherapy. Their drive and innovative spirit will be vital in propelling breakthrough therapies that can transform how we treat cancer."

This sentiment highlights not only the necessity of financial support but also the critical role of enthusiastic scientists in enhancing cancer care.

Application Process and Research Focus

Applications for the YIA will be accepted through ASCO's 2026 Grants and Awards Program. The funding is specifically designed to support the most promising research projects within the realm of immunotherapy, addressing a variety of cancer types. Conquer Cancer aims to ensure that all research is meaningful, prioritizing applications that have the potential to provide impactful advancements for patients worldwide.

Furthermore, the inaugural recipient of the PICI YIA will be publicly acknowledged during the 2026 ASCO Annual Meeting, a prestigious event in the oncology community. This recognition is seen as a vital milestone for emerging researchers and signifies their entry into the in-demand field of cancer research.

Sustaining the Future of Cancer Research

Clifford A. Hudis, the CEO of ASCO and Executive Vice Chair of Conquer Cancer, reiterated the program's long-term vision. He stated, "Our commitment at Conquer Cancer is to ensure that we have an ever-growing pipeline of enthusiastic, passionate, and supported early-career investigators who will devote their lives to enhancing cancer care." Through this endowment, the focus on immunotherapy and its potential to revolutionize cancer treatment will be sustained.

About the Organizations

The Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 2016 with the vision of transforming cancer into a curable disease through innovative immune therapies. With a substantial investment of over $4 billion in capital, PICI has created a collaborative environment among the country’s leading cancer centers, driving high-risk, high-reward research into actionable therapies.

On the other hand, Conquer Cancer, the ASCO Foundation, has been pivotal in funding research since 1984, contributing over $203 million through nearly 9,800 grants to enhance cancer care and support the scientific community. Their vision is clear: a world where cancer prevention and treatment advancements are accessible to every patient.

As PICI and ASCO embark on this promising initiative, the future of cancer research looks bright, with an emphasis on collaboration, innovation, and unwavering support for those at the forefront of this critical field.