Training session to gain valuable insights on some of the most impactful funding opportunities sponsored by the Horizon Europe program, for early-stage professionals in the oncology field.

Horizon Europe – Mission Cancer: the initiative aims at improving through research the lives of cancer patients and accelerating the development of effective treatments.

MSCA Fellowships (Marie Sklodowska-Curie Actions): learn about the excellent opportunities provided by MSCA Fellowships for researchers to enhance their skills, gain international experience, and build their professional networks

ERC Grants (European Research Council): get detailed information on ERC Starting and Consolidator Grants, which offer substantial funding for early- and mid-career researchers with the potential to become future leaders in their fields.

Learning objectives

• Gain a clear understanding of the Horizon Europe programme and beyond funding opportunities for cancer research.
• Identify major funding opportunities available to young investigators in the oncology field across Europe.
• Learn how to find the right funding mechanism using web search tools for grants.
• Develop skills to analyze and interpret funding calls, ensuring alignment with eligibility criteria and proposal requirements.
• Receive practical guidance on the first steps to preparing a successful funding proposal, including real-world insights from a case study.

Overview and opportunities for cancer research within and beyond the Horizon Europe programme:

• A comprehensive overview of exclusive funding opportunities tailored for young investigators in the oncology field.
• Smart strategies to identify the best funding mechanisms for your research proposal.
• A step-by-step guide on how to navigate funding calls and ensure eligibility.
• Insider tips from a real case study on preparing a winning proposal.

Learning objectives

• Gain a clear understanding of the Horizon Europe programme and beyond funding opportunities for cancer research.
• Identify major funding opportunities available to young investigators in the oncology field across Europe.
• Learn how to find the right funding mechanism using web search tools for grants.
• Develop skills to analyze and interpret funding calls, ensuring alignment with eligibility criteria and proposal requirements.
• Receive practical guidance on the first steps to preparing a successful funding proposal, including real-world insights from a case study.

The session focuses on the basic principles of grantsmanship, with particular emphasis on the following areas:

• Scientific Writing and Communication: best practices for writing compelling narratives, presenting data effectively, and ensuring your proposal aligns with the funder's guidelines and priorities.
• Mastering the Evaluation Process: explore what makes a grant application stand out to reviewers, identify common mistakes to sidestep, understand how each section of the proposal aligns with specific review criteria, and learn effective strategies for incorporating reviewer feedback to enhance your submission.
• Marketing Techniques: articulating the vision and potential impact of your proposed project, highlighting its innovative aspects, and demonstrating its relevance and benefits to stakeholders. Learn how to make your proposal stand out by showcasing the significance and urgency of your research.

Learning objectives

• Get familiar with the art of grantsmanship and its technical pillars.
• Learn how to clearly and effectively write and communicate in grant applications.
• Gain insights into what reviewers look for in grant applications and learn how to navigate reviews to improve your chances of securing funding.
• Understand how to effectively convey the vision and potential impact of your proposed research project.

Mastering the art of grant writing is essential for advancing cancer research and building a successful academic career. This immersive three-day residential course—OECI Academy’s first in-person event—is tailored for junior scientists and oncologists from OECI member institutions. It offers a hands-on, guided experience covering every phase of grant proposal development, from shaping a compelling research plan to crafting a persuasive abstract and biosketch.

Participants will deepen their understanding of budgeting, methodology, and dissemination strategies, while also learning to turn feedback and rejection into opportunities for improvement. The programme includes expert-led lectures, group activities, and individual assignments to ensure well-rounded, practical training.

Applications must be submitted by July 15, 2025, including a completed application form, CV, and diploma copy. Twenty-five full and twenty-five partial bursaries will be awarded to the top-ranked applicants, covering travel, accommodation, meals, registration, and learning materials.

Don't miss the opportunity to elevate your grant writing skills and join a vibrant network of early-career cancer researchers.

Learning objectives

• Comprehend and implement the fundamental elements of a grant application.
• Formulate a well-organized research plan that includes a clear and testable hypothesis, defined aims (both specific objectives and long-term goals), a critical literature review, and suitable, feasible methodologies.
• Understand the essential principles of sample size calculation.
• Demonstrate that the proposed research is highly innovative and has significant implications for human health and society.
• Articulate the importance and relevance of the project to the funding agency.
• Craft an engaging biosketch and personal statement that effectively highlight one’s qualifications and motivations.
• Detail the resources and infrastructure available at the host institutions, emphasizing how they will support the proposed research.
• Accurately calculate costs and formulate a realistic budget.