The application deadline for this program was Thursday, March 5.

AACR deeply values the integral role that oncology nurses play in clinical research and cancer care and is committed to recognizing, supporting, and elevating their contributions. This commitment is reflected in AACR’s enduring partnership with the Oncology Nursing Society (ONS) and the Oncology Nurse Foundation (ONF).

Oncology nurses are invited to apply to participate in a special educational and professional development experience at the AACR Annual Meeting 2026. The AACR-ONF Oncology Nurse Scholars Program will select five oncology nurses to attend the Annual Meeting and take part in a curated experience designed to:

• Expose nurses to the latest advances across all areas of cancer research
• Facilitate direct interaction with leaders in cancer science and medicine
• Foster mentorship, professional growth, and cross-disciplinary engagement

Program Benefits

Applicants who are selected as AACR Oncology Nurse Scholars will receive:

• Registration support to attend the AACR Annual Meeting
• Individualized support from a dedicated clinician mentor for the duration of the meeting
• A structured meet-and-greet opportunity with other clinician-scientists
• Opportunities for one-on-one or small-group mentorship with clinicians and researchers
• Assistance in selecting scientific sessions from the program to build a meeting itinerary that is relevant to nursing practice and patient care
• Invitations to selected networking and social events during the meeting
• Exposure to the full spectrum of cancer research, including basic, translational, clinical, and population sciences

Program Requirements

Applicants who are selected as AACR Oncology Nurse Scholars are expected to:

• Attend the Annual Meeting in person
• Actively engage in designated program activities
• Submit a brief post-meeting reflection, describing:
  • Key takeaways from the meeting
  • What they learned
  • How the experience may influence their practice
  • Suggestions for future program improvement