PCORI Cycle 2 2026 Methods Funding Announcement specifically prioritizes Methods to Improve the Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) in Patient-Centered Comparative Effectiveness Research (CER). The program funds studies addressing high-impact methodological gaps, with AI/ML topics including applications of AI/ML to augment or transform research methodologies or processes and approaches using AI/ML to enhance health communication. Additional priority areas include Methods to Support Use of Real-World Data in Multi-Site Patient-Centered CER and Methods to Improve Study Design. Awards provide up to $750,000 in direct costs for up to 3 years from a total program budget of $12 million. Applicants must address PCORI Foundational Expectations for Partnerships in Research, ensuring patients and stakeholders meaningfully contribute lived experience. Letter of Intent deadline is April 28, 2026, with full applications due September 1, 2026.

NCI Continuing Umbrella of Research Experiences (CURE) Academic Career Excellence (ACE) Award (K32) is a grant from the National Cancer Institute (NCI) that funds early postdoctoral fellows from diverse backgrounds, including underrepresented groups, to pursue research training in cancer-related fields. The K32 award supports fellows within 12 months prior to transitioning into, or within the first two years of, a postdoctoral position. The program, operated through NCI's Center to Reduce Cancer Health Disparities (CRCHD), aims to enhance the pool of qualified diverse cancer researchers. Beginning with the June 12, 2025 due date, the CURE ACE Award is available in both Independent Clinical Trial Required and Independent Clinical Trial Not Allowed versions. Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents at time of award.