Cancer Research Institute’s Irvington Fellowship: Empowering Diversity in Immunology and Cancer Research for African American Scholars

About Cancer Research Institute (CRI)

The Cancer Research Institute (CRI) offers the Irvington Postdoctoral Fellowship to Promote Racial Diversity, presenting a unique opportunity for postdoctoral researchers in the field of immunology or cancer immunology. This initiative aims to support young scientists from underrepresented minority groups, including black or African American, Hispanic or Latino, American Indian or Alaska Native, Native Hawaiian, or other Pacific Islander individuals. Recognizing that underrepresentation can manifest differently, the fellowship also welcomes applicants from socioeconomically disadvantaged populations and other racial or ethnic groups underrepresented by their institution.

Eligibility:

Eligible candidates must be working at a nonprofit institution in the United States or abroad and hold a doctoral degree. The proposed research should align with the broad field of immunology, addressing the challenges posed by cancer. The fellowship requires candidates to conduct their research under the mentorship of a sponsor holding a formal appointment as an assistant professor or higher at the host institution.

Importantly, the fellowship emphasizes diversity and inclusion, targeting individuals with fewer than five years of postdoctoral experience, excluding years of residency for M.D. applicants. Exceptions may be considered for applicants who have spent three or more years in a sponsor’s laboratory in exceptional circumstances.

Research Focus:

CRI seeks hypothesis-driven, mechanistic studies in immunology and tumor immunology that directly impact the understanding of the immune system’s role in cancer.

Evaluation Process:

A panel of scientists from the CRI Scientific Advisory Council will rigorously evaluate candidates, sponsors, training environments, and the proposed project’s nature and feasibility.

Fellowship Details:

• Stipend of $74,000 for the first year, $76,000 for the second year, and $78,000 for the third year.
• An annual allowance of $5,000 is provided to the host institution for research supplies, travel, health insurance, and/or childcare.
• No deductions for administrative overhead from the stipend or institutional allowance.
• Payments are made monthly in U.S. currency to the host institution.

Deadlines:

• Application deadlines: February 15, 2024, 12:00 PM
• RSO detailed review deadline: February 27, 2024, 12:00 PM
• Program application deadline: March 1, 2024, 3:00 PM

Approvals: Applicants need approvals from the Investigator, Department Head, Faculty ADR/Dean, and Research Services before submission.

Additional Information and Contact:

• CRI Irvington Postdoctoral Fellowship to Promote Racial Diversity Application Form is available.
• For inquiries, contact postdoc@ucalgary.ca.

Fostering Diversity in Immunology and Cancer Research: The Impact of CRI Irvington Postdoctoral Fellowship on African American Scholars

The CRI Irvington Postdoctoral Fellowship to Promote Racial Diversity plays a crucial role in addressing the underrepresentation of individuals from diverse backgrounds, including African Americans, in the field of immunology and cancer research. Here are key points highlighting the importance of this postdoctoral fellowship to African American candidates:

1. Diversity and Inclusion Focus:

   • The fellowship is specifically designed to promote racial diversity by actively encouraging applications from underrepresented minority groups, including African Americans.
   • It recognizes and addresses the historical underrepresentation of African Americans in scientific research, particularly in the fields of immunology and cancer immunology.

2. Financial Support:

   • The fellowship offers a substantial stipend, providing financial support to postdoctoral researchers. This support is vital for individuals, including African Americans, who may face financial barriers in pursuing advanced research careers.

3. Career Advancement and Mentorship:

   • In addition to financial assistance, the fellowship emphasizes mentoring and career advancement. This is particularly important for individuals from underrepresented backgrounds, as mentorship can significantly impact career trajectories and success.

4. Commitment to Equity:

   • The fellowship underscores its commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion in immuno-oncology. This commitment acknowledges the importance of diverse perspectives in driving scientific innovation and breakthroughs.

5. Addressing Underrepresentation:

   • By explicitly welcoming applicants from socioeconomically disadvantaged populations and other racial or ethnic groups underrepresented by their institution, the fellowship recognizes that underrepresentation can manifest in various ways. This inclusive approach is essential for addressing systemic barriers.

6. Scientific Impact:

   • The fellowship supports hypothesis-driven, mechanistic studies in immunology and tumor immunology that directly contribute to understanding the immune system’s role in cancer. African American researchers contributing to this area can make significant scientific contributions.

7. Opportunities for advancement:

   • The fellowship is open to individuals with fewer than five years of postdoctoral experience, creating opportunities for early-career researchers, including African Americans, to advance their careers in cancer research.

8. Community Building:

   • By fostering a racially diverse and inclusive community of scientists, the fellowship contributes to breaking down barriers and creating a supportive environment for researchers from all backgrounds.

In summary, the CRI Irvington Postdoctoral Fellowship to Promote Racial Diversity is a significant opportunity for African American postdoctoral researchers, offering financial support, mentorship, and a platform to contribute to cutting-edge research in immunology and cancer immunology. It aligns with broader efforts to promote diversity and inclusion in scientific research, recognizing the valuable contributions that individuals from diverse backgrounds, including African Americans, can make to the field.