The Department of Defense is seeking applications for the Melanoma Academy Scholar Award, a funding opportunity that aims to support early career investigators in the field of melanoma research. The award focuses on both the researcher's career potential and their research proposal. Applicants must designate a Career Guide with a track record of successful mentorship and a strong record of funding and publications in melanoma. The award has a direct cost cap of $550,000 and a maximum period of performance of 3 years. Key points to consider: • The award is open to unrestricted entities, subject to any clarification in the text field entitled "Additional Information on Eligibility" • Preliminary data are not required for the application • The Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs (CDMRP) expects to allot approximately $1.76 million to fund approximately 2 Melanoma Academy Scholar Award applications • The award is part of the Military Medical Research and Development program • The application deadline is October 1, 2025