University of Maryland Cancer Center Receives $3 Million to Cultivate Next-Gen Oncology Researchers
The University of Maryland Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center (UMGCCC) has secured a $3 million National Cancer Institute (NCI) Career Development Award, marking a significant investment in the future of cancer research and health equity. This funding will establish the Advancing Oncologic Research Communities in Health Equity (ARCH) K12 Program, designed to train early-career scientists dedicated to improving cancer outcomes for diverse patient populations.
Addressing Cancer Disparities Through Targeted Training
The ARCH K12 Program will focus on supporting postdoctoral fellows and junior faculty as they transition into independent research careers. Scholars will receive two years of comprehensive support, including salary, research funding, tuition assistance and travel funds. The program’s core mission is to integrate population-focused investigations into oncology research, ultimately leading to more effective and equitable cancer prevention and treatment strategies.
“This award is a recognition of UMGCCC’s excellence in community-informed cancer research and treatment,” stated Taofeek K. Owonikoko, MD, Executive Director of UMGCCC. The NCI grant acknowledges the center’s strong ties to the Baltimore community and its commitment to tailoring cancer care to the specific needs of its patients.
A Multidisciplinary Approach to Cancer Research
The ARCH K12 Program is spearheaded by a team of leading oncology experts: Drs. Taofeek Owonikoko, Stuart Martin, and Rebecca G. Nowak. These Principal Investigators will oversee the program and evaluate its impact on the development of future cancer researchers. A team of Co-Investigators, including Esa Matius Davis, Wonder P. Drake, Cheryl L. Knott, Shan O. Ntiri, Cindy M. Schaeffer, and Ester Villalonga-Olives, will contribute their expertise to the program’s success.
Dr. Stuart Martin emphasized the importance of investing in early-career researchers, particularly those committed to community oncology. “Developments in cancer research have changed the prognosis for many forms of cancer,” he said. “We have the opportunity to keep this momentum going.”
UMGCCC: A National Leader in Inclusive Cancer Research
UMGCCC was the sole cancer center nationwide to receive this specific NCI grant in 2025, highlighting its unique position as a leader in inclusive cancer research. The center has a long-standing reputation for enrolling patients from diverse backgrounds in clinical trials, fostering trust within the community and driving impactful research.
UMSOM Dean Mark T. Gladwin underscored the program’s potential to address cancer disparities: “This new grant will help us connect the dots to address cancer disparities—linking early-career oncology researchers committed to health equity with the coordinated training, professional development, community engagement, and prevention efforts needed to drive meaningful change.”
Application Details and Timeline
The ARCH K12 Program is now accepting applications from individuals affiliated with the University of Maryland Baltimore (UMB). The application deadline is April 8, 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the focus of the ARCH K12 Program?
The program focuses on training early-career researchers to improve cancer outcomes across diverse populations, with a strong emphasis on health equity.
Who is eligible to apply?
Postdoctoral fellows and junior faculty affiliated with the University of Maryland Baltimore (UMB) are eligible to apply.
What kind of support do scholars receive?
Scholars receive two years of comprehensive support, including salary, research funding, tuition assistance, and travel funds.
When is the application deadline?
The application deadline is April 8, 2026.
Where can I find more information about the program?
More information can be found on the ARCH K12 Program website.
Who are the Principal Investigators of the ARCH K12 Program?
The Principal Investigators are Drs. Taofeek Owonikoko, Stuart Martin, and Rebecca G. Nowak.
Interested in learning more about cancer research and treatment options? Explore the University of Maryland Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center website to discover the latest advancements and resources.
