Innovation Award

About the Innovation Pilot Award

The Innovation Pilot Award supports the early development of high-quality, innovative cancer research projects from all areas, including basic science, laboratory-based translation, clinical investigation and population science. Funded through an annual request for applications, the Innovation Pilot Awards aim to support new scientific directions and is open to all Massey research members. One to two projects per Massey research program will be selected annually.

Award details

  • Funds should be used to support a discrete, specified hypothesis-driven research project from a Massey research member. Other team members may include non-members.
  • The awards can range in size, but cannot exceed $100,000. Applicants may request up to the full amount and there is no minimum amount required.
  • Multi-PI submissions are highly encouraged but not required.
  • The proposed project period should not exceed 18 months
  • A Massey investigator may only hold one active pilot research award at a time

Research program project considerations

  • Cancer Biology: Projects should be focused on the development of new insights across the hallmarks of cancer biology.
  • Developmental Therapeutics: Projects should address the development of innovative strategies for cancer treatment.
  • Cancer Prevention and Control: Projects should be focused on addressing cancer prevention and control.

Learn more about Massey's research programs

Upcoming deadlines and award dates

Now accepting submissions for the 2024 cycle:

If you have questions about the Innovation award, please contact Alex Haynes at haynesa4@vcu.edu or Cian Myers at myersc4@vcu.edu. 

Previous awardees