News | Conquer Cancer, the ASCO Foundation

Cancer touches everyone in some way. When it touches your life — whether as a patient, loved one, advocate, or caregiver — it helps to know dedicated researchers are working to push the boundaries of what’s possible, translating scientific discoveries into real hope for treatment and quality of life.

CHICAGO, Ill. — Taking the stage back-to-back at oncology’s most prestigious event—the 2026 ASCO Annual Meeting Plenary Session—two past Conquer Cancer grant recipients presented historic Phase 3 clinical trial results. Their discoveries in pancreatic cancer and sarcoma will immediately change treatment for aggressive, traditionally resistant forms of cancer, bringing hope to families worldwide.

ALEXANDRIA, Va. — Conquer Cancer^®, the ASCO Foundation, will present more than $11.7 million in funding through more than 480 grants and awards spanning multiple areas of cancer care. These awards will be given in conjunction with the 2026 ASCO Annual Meeting held in Chicago, Illinois, May 29–June 2.

Dr. Brian Wolpin and Dr. Mark Dickson both received early-career funding from Conquer Cancer. On May 31, 2026, they will stand on the ASCO Plenary Stage – the most prestigious platform in oncology – to present major Phase 3 clinical trial data. They will present on different diseases, on the same day. This dual appearance is not a coincidence. It is what early-career investment looks like over time.  

The notifications a researcher never forgets are the ones telling them they got the grant.