Grant Selection Process
ICRF selects and funds the most promising cancer research in Israel through a rigorous, multi-step scientific review process modeled after the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH). Every proposal is evaluated by leading scientists and oncologists, known as the ICRF Scientific Review Panel (SRP), to ensure funding is awarded based on scientific excellence, innovation, and potential impact on cancer research and patient care.
The ICRF Grant Review Process
1. Research Applications Submitted
Israeli scientists, based in Israel, submit detailed grant proposals, research plans, credentials, and supporting materials during the annual application cycle.
2. Expert Peer Review
Each application is independently reviewed by leading U.S. and Canadian cancer researchers on one of the three ICRF Scientific Review Panels (SRPs). Two reviewers from the assigned panel each provide a detailed evaluation and score based on:
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Scientific merit & innovation
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Potential to advance the understanding, diagnosis or treatment of cancer
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Investigator qualifications and scientific productivity
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Research environment & resources
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Budget and feasibility
3. Scientific Review Panel Discussion & Ranking
The Scientific Review Panels meet annually to discuss applications, assign priority scores, and rank the most promising projects.
4. International Scientific Council Oversight
The ICRF International Scientific Council (ISC), composed of eminent U.S., Canadian and Israeli cancer researchers, reviews and approves recommendations from the SRP process. The ISC also discusses ICRF scientific policy priorities.
5. Board Approval & Funding
Final funding decisions are approved by the ICRF International Board of Trustees based on available resources, and grants are awarded to the top-ranked cancer research projects.
6. Ongoing Progress Review
Multi-year grants are reviewed annually to ensure research milestones and progress goals are being met.
