The Rita Allen Foundation Scholars program, supported by the Rita Allen Foundation, funds basic biomedical research in cancer, immunology, and neuroscience, as well as pain research through the Rita Allen Foundation Award in Pain.
Nominations are open to independent investigators in the early stages of their careers, preferably within the first three years of a tenure-track appointment, at institutions invited to participate in the program. Candidates must be legally employed at a U.S. degree-granting or research institution at the time of application; U.S. citizenship is not required, and awards are made to the nominating nonprofit organization.
Scholars receive up to 110,000 USD per year for a maximum of five years, with funds restricted to direct project expenses, including up to 50 percent of the Scholar’s compensation.
The Letter of Inquiry deadline is September 3, 2026, and the final application deadline is October 14, 2026.