In support of its mission to promote the education and training of cancer scientists and clinicians, and to cultivate a highly skilled and diverse cancer research workforce, AACR provides AACR Annual Meeting attendees at all career stages—from high school and undergraduate students to senior investigators—with opportunities to advance their careers.

NextGen Stars

The prestigious and competitive NextGen Stars program offers early-career and early-stage scientists an opportunity to apply to give a presentation in a Major Symposium or Advances Session at the AACR Annual Meeting 2027. Speaking slots are limited and are only available to AACR Associate Members and to AACR Active Members who are not above the level of assistant professor or equivalent. The NextGen Stars program provides an exciting opportunity to increase the visibility of early-career and early-stage scientists at the AACR Annual Meeting and to support their professional development and advancement.  The deadline to submit applications is 5:00 p.m. ET, September 23, 2026. Applications consist of an extended abstract (limit 8,000 characters), a CV, and a letter of recommendation from a P.I., department head, or another mentor who is familiar with the applicant’s work. Applicants selected as NextGen Stars for 2027 will receive travel support and complimentary registration for the meeting. Details can be found on the NextGen Stars page.

Professional Advancement Series

Exclusive Member Benefit

The Professional Development Series of sessions supports the education, training, and career advancement of cancer research investigators at all stages of their careers. Developed through a collaborative effort among the AACR Science Education and Career Advancement Committee, Minorities in Cancer Research (MICR) Council, Women in Cancer Research (WICR) Council, Associate Member Council (AMC), and the Publications Committee, these sessions provide several interactive and engaging professional development and career advancement opportunities to investigators at all levels, including students, early-career scientists, and early-stage investigators. 

All Professional Development Sessions are complimentary and exclusively available to AACR members. Membership is free for Associate Members, including graduate students, medical students and residents, and clinical and postdoctoral fellows enrolled in education or training programs that may lead to a career in cancer research. Membership is also free for Student Members, including undergraduate, high school, and postbaccalaureate students.

If you are not currently an AACR member, we strongly encourage you to join and take advantage of these sessions, along with the many other benefits of membership. These benefits include the ability to sponsor abstracts, substantially discounted registration rates for AACR meetings and events, and access to a wide range of professional and scientific resources.

Apply for AACR Membership

The full listing of sessions in the Professional Development Series to be held at the Annual Meeting 2027 will be announced in the fall. Space is limited and participation is available for all sessions on a first-come, first-served basis for all sessions. Visit AACR.org/PDS for session updates and to preregister. 

Undergraduate Student Caucus and Poster Competition

Saturday, April 3, 2027
With more than 250 undergraduate student participants annually, the AACR Undergraduate Student Caucus and Poster Competition remains the premier event for undergraduate students attending the AACR Annual Meeting. Now in its 22nd year, this program provides undergraduate students with the opportunity to learn more about current research in the cancer field, hear from investigators about educational pathways and career development, explore career options in the cancer field, and compete for the Margaret Foti Foundation Undergraduate Prizes for Cancer Research while presenting research. Undergraduates at all levels and postbaccalaureate students are welcome to participate in this highly anticipated program at no cost. To learn more about this exciting opportunity, please visit the Science Education page, or send an email to [email protected]. 

• Abstract Submission Deadline: March 2, 2027 (Presenting Students)
• Registration Deadline: March 8, 2027 (Nonpresenting Students)

AACR Special Program for High School Students: The Conquest of Cancer and the Next Generation of Cancer Researchers

Tuesday, April 6 , 2027
This interactive program offers high school students a unique opportunity to explore the world of cancer research while attending the AACR Annual Meeting. Participants engage with peers, AACR leaders, and distinguished scientists in an inspiring learning environment designed to spark curiosity and foster interest in careers in biomedical research. Through educational sessions, meaningful discussions, and networking opportunities, students gain valuable insights into advances in cancer research and the diverse career paths available in the field.

A highlight of the program is the opportunity for students who are already conducting cancer-related research to present their findings to the scientific community and compete for awards recognizing outstanding research achievements. By showcasing their work and receiving feedback from leading researchers, students gain valuable experience and encouragement as they pursue future careers in science and medicine.

• Abstract Submission Deadline: March 2, 2027 (Presenting Students)
• Registration Deadline: March 8, 2027 (Nonpresenting Students)

Space is limited. Learn more and register today.

Networking Hubs

Taking place on Sunday, April 4, from 6:30 p.m.-8:00 p.m., the AACR Networking Hubs will once again offer a “can’t miss” opportunity for young investigators. The Hubs will target several rapidly advancing areas of research. There will be no formal program, but the Hubs offer a fun opportunity to socialize and network with colleagues, potential collaborators, and some of the most respected investigators in the cancer research community. Look for more information in the coming months.