CCS Research Training Awards - Master's Level

The Canadian Cancer Society’s (CCS) Research Training Awards program aims to support growth and innovation in the next generation of diverse cancer researchers across Canada at the master’s, doctoral, and postdoctoral levels. This program seeks to build inclusive capacity in all areas of cancer research, while fostering interdisciplinary learning, knowledge translation, mentorship, and patient & community engagement opportunities. By supporting a diverse pool of talented researchers, the program will contribute to reshaping cancer research to be more equitable, inclusive, and impactful.

This program was co-developed and revised with guidance from CCS advisors, including Black and Indigenous community members, and is continuously reviewed to monitor and improve its impact.

Institutional racism and colonialism have disproportionately impacted First Nations, Inuit, Métis, and Black people, having a significant impact on cancer research and care. Furthermore, too few studies are being conducted by or in partnership with these communities*. Engaging Indigenous and Black researchers is crucial for addressing these gaps and contributing to collective action toward health equity and research excellence. Recognizing that marginalized groups face structural and systemic barriers to inclusion and are underrepresented in the field of cancer research, CCS specifically invites Black and Indigenous trainees to submit applications for the 2026 master competition in order to positively alter the research landscape.

This special mandate is a direct response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s Calls to Action, CCS’s commitment to Advancing Health Equity Through Cancer Information and Support Services, and the overarching goal of the Research Training Awards program to develop initiatives that improve support for research trainees. The mandate aims to address current gaps in health outcomes, training, and treatments for Black and Indigenous communities, and to empower the next generation of researchers who are at the forefront of cancer research excellence through collective action.

* In this program, the term “community” and “communities” is intended in the most inclusive way possible to include all treaty people, both Indigenous and settler populations.