Funding Opportunities

Since 2008, Lung Cancer Initiative has funded more than $3 million in lung cancer research. The goal of Lung Cancer Initiative‘s research program is to invest in the development of local lung cancer experts and research to save lives. By funding research we are providing opportunities for researchers earlier in their careers and encouraging continued growth and involvement in the field of lung cancer.

If you have any questions about funding opportunities, please contact our Chief Mission Delivery Officer, Jenni Danai.

Research Fellow Program

(2015-current)

The LCI Research Fellowship program annually provides five $25,000 one-year fellowship grants for students who wish to pursue a career in lung cancer research, diagnosis, treatment and/or care.

Researchers at each of the following institutions are eligible to apply: Duke University, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Wake Forest University, East Carolina University, and Levine Cancer Institute.

Vicky Amidon Innovation in Lung Cancer Research Grant

(2018-current)

Through the Vicky Amidon Innovation in Lung Cancer Research Grant, LCI aims to recognize and provide research funding for innovative lung cancer projects that will improve the lives of those diagnosed with lung cancer in North Carolina.

The Vicky Amidon Innovation in Lung Cancer Research Award is named in the memory of Vicky Amidon, a beloved wife, mother and friend to many. At the age of 44, Vicky was diagnosed with lung cancer and faced a difficult two-and-a-half year battle with the disease. Vicky’s memory continues to impact many lives and is furthered through her family s advocacy and support for the advancement of lung cancer research and awareness. The award recognizes and supports researchers who are developing innovative lung cancer projects that will improve the lives of those at risk of or living with lung cancer.

Career Development Research Grant

(2019-current)

Through Lung Cancer Initiative’s Career Development Grant, LCI aims to support and provide research funding to emerging research leaders who plan to continue their career in the field of lung cancer.

The researcher’s project must be focused on basic scientific research with the goal of impacting lung cancer care, including lung cancer prevention, diagnosis, treatment, or survivorship.

REACH Community Grant Program

The Lung Cancer Initiative’s REACH Community Grant Program aims to empower and support community organizations to fill a gap in lung cancer care within their local communities.

The REACH Community Grant Program awards funding of up to $10,000 to support community-based organizations and non-profit institutions in their collaborative efforts to holistically assist the entire lung cancer community, particularly those who are uninsured, underinsured, and most impacted. Formerly the Access Grant program, this program began in 2016 and has collectively awarded almost $180,000 to 15 community organizations across North Carolina. The REACH Community Grant Program funds the creation of new programs or expansion of existing programs that reach a community with demonstrated need, promote lung cancer education and awareness, improve access to care, support complementary healthcare, or advance health equity for North Carolinians.

The following eligibility requirements apply to the REACH Community Grant Program:

– Project must be specific to lung cancer in North Carolina.

– Project must collaborate with at least one other community partner, including but not limited to county collaborations, nonprofits, hospitals, and community-based organizations.

– Individuals are not eligible to apply.

– Projects must be respectful of and inclusive to the health beliefs, practices and cultural and linguistic needs of diverse patients.

– Past awardees are eligible to apply, however priority is given to first time applicants.

– Past awardees must show how the proposed project builds on or differs from the previously funded grant project and be up to date on all reporting requirements.

To apply please download the application and email the completed application to Alisha Patel, apatel@lungcancerinitiative.org.  The application deadline is July 26, 2023.

Health Research Alliance

The Lung Cancer Initiative is proud to join over 85 other nonprofit research funders as a member of the Health Research Alliance. The Health Research Alliance is a collaborative member organization of nonprofit research funders, committed to maximizing the impact of biomedical research to improve human health.

Scientific Advisory Committee

LCI’s research programming is led by the following healthcare leaders from across the country:

Ed Kim, MD, Chair, City of Hope
Jeff Clarke, MD, Duke Cancer Institute
Neal Ready, MD, Duke Cancer Institute
Paul R. Walker, MD, FACP
Amy Cipau, LCI President
Kathryn Mileham, MD, Atrium Health
Jared Weiss, MD, UNC Health
Chad Pecot, MD, UNC Health
Jeff Petty, MD, Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist