The Uganda Cancer Institute (UCI) has achieved a major milestone on the global oncology stage after three of its early-career scientists are named recipients of the highly competitive 2026 Global Oncology Young Investigator Award by the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO).
The award recipients are Dr. Derrick Bay Abila, Dr. Racheal Angom, and Dr. Anthony Kayiira, all researchers and clinicians based at UCI headquarters in Mulago, Kampala.
The three scientists were selected from a highly competitive pool of more than 500 applicants worldwide, further cementing UCI’s growing reputation as a centre of excellence in cancer research and innovation. Their recognition follows previous successes by UCI investigators in 2024.
Each award includes research funding of USD 50,000 (approximately UGX 185 million) to support independent oncology research projects.
The awardees will also participate in the annual Conquer Cancer Grants and Awards Ceremony, where they will engage with leading cancer researchers, clinicians, and innovators from across the globe.
The program is widely recognized for nurturing future leaders in global oncology research.
Speaking about the achievement, Dr. Jackson Orem, Executive Director of the Uganda Cancer Institute, described the recognition as a significant endorsement of the Institute’s growing research capacity and mentorship efforts.
“Winning three of the ASCO 2026 Global Oncology Young Investigator Awards and emerging as the only recipients from Africa is a tremendous achievement for the Uganda Cancer Institute and for Uganda as a whole. This recognition affirms the strength of our research programs, the quality of our scientists, and the effectiveness of our mentorship and training initiatives. It demonstrates that UCI is building a new generation of globally competitive oncology leaders,” Dr. Orem said.
Dr. Racheal Angom, one of the award recipients, expressed excitement about the opportunity to advance her research and collaborate with international experts.
“I am deeply honored to receive this award and excited about the opportunities that come with the yearlong program. The research funding will significantly support my work, and I look forward to collaborating and learning from fellow young oncologists and researchers from around the world,” she said.
The other recipients of the 2026 Global Oncology Young Investigator Award are Dr.Syeda Mina of the Mayo Clinic in the United States and Dr. Eduardo Gonzales of the Instituto Nacional de CienciasMédicas.
The achievement highlights Uganda’s growing contribution to global cancer research and reinforces the Uganda Cancer Institute’s position as a leading regional hub for cancer treatment, research, and training.
About the ASCO Global Oncology Young Investigator Award:
The American Society of Clinical Oncology Global Oncology (ASCO) Young Investigator Award supports early-career researchers from low- and middle-income countries by providing funding, mentorship, and international exposure aimed at strengthening global cancer research and leadership.
About the Uganda Cancer Institute
The Uganda Cancer Institute is Uganda’s national centre for cancer treatment, research, and training. Established in 1967, the Institute is internationally recognized for advancing cancer care, conducting ground-breaking research, and building capacity for oncology services across the region.
