# Discovery Programme Foundation Award

**Funder:** Cancer Research UK
**Budget:** Up to £1.5m
**Deadline:** 29 September 2026 (Outline application deadline; closed scheme — contact discovery@cancer.org.uk at least one month before deadline)
**Duration:** 6 years (or part-time equivalent)
**Consortium:** No
**Application:** 2-stage: outline application → full application + interview with Expert Review Panel
**Frequency:** Annual
**Eligible countries:** GB
**Official call:** https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/funding-for-researchers/our-funding-schemes/discovery-programme-foundation-awards
**Last verified:** 14 June 2026

## Eligibility & scope

For mid-career researchers at UK universities, medical schools, hospitals or research institutions with a salaried independent position. Applicant must be funded by a Higher Education Funding Council, NHS or equivalent; award cannot fund applicant salary. Closed scheme — prior contact required. Supports cancer biology research; excludes clinical trials, drug discovery as sole function, early detection/prevention, and pure technology development.

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Source: [The Great Grantsby](https://grantsby.eu/grants/cancer-research-uk-discovery-programme-foundation-award-2026-09) — EU grant monitoring for academic researchers. Always verify details on the funder's website before applying.