Mentoring Award for Graduate Students

Mentoring Award for Graduate Students

Purpose

The Purdue Institute for Cancer Research (PICR) seeks to recognize exceptional mentoring by graduate students who have demonstrated a commitment to supporting and guiding their peers in academic, research, and professional development endeavors in cancer research. An annual award of $1000 will be presented to a graduate student trainee who demonstrates sustained mentorship throughout their doctoral program in assisting undergraduate and/or other graduate students in achieving their own research.

Eligibility

Applicants must be doctoral students currently registered and in good standing. Applicants must also demonstrate a strong record of mentoring within the cancer research community. The applicant must be enrolled as a doctoral student under the direction of a faculty member in one of the programs of the Purdue University Institute for Cancer Research.

Nomination procedure

1. The application packet should be submitted as a single PDF file here by October 19, 2026.
2. The Cancer Research Training and Education Committee will serve as the selection committee.
3. Nominations will include in the following order:
   1. Curriculum Vitae
   2. A mentoring statement (from the nominee) including their mentoring philosophy, commitment to mentoring and accomplishments in the area of mentoring (maximum of 500 words).
   3. One letter of support from a mentee, advisor, or another staff member who has first-hand knowledge of their excellence in mentoring. Letter can be signed by multiple individuals. There can only be one letter of support.

Recognition

The award recipient will be announced at the Annual PICR Recognition Awards Ceremony and will receive a $1000 monetary award and a plaque in recognition of their exceptional mentorship. Additionally, the awardee with be the PICR nominee for the Purdue OGSPS Mentoring Award for Graduate Students.