CoC Annual Cancer Research Paper Competition

The Commission on Cancer (CoC) and American Cancer Society host an annual paper competition for physicians-in-training to foster the importance of oncologic research in support of its missions.

Details regarding criteria for the 2027 Competition will be posted in January.

2026 Cancer Research Paper Competition Winners

Basic Science

First Place

Divyansh Agarwal, MD, PhD

University of Minnesota

Paper Title
An Integrin-Laminin Gradient Drives Inflammation-to-Malignancy Transition on Distal Cholangiocarcinoma

Awarded $1,000 honorarium.

Presentation | Abstract

Second Place

Suryansh Suryansh, MBBS

University of Iowa

Paper Title
Myeloid TLR4 Signaling Drives Cytokine-Mediated CD4+ T-Cell Cytotoxicity and Reduces Pancreatic Tumor Burden

Awarded $500 honorarium.

Presentation| Abstract

Clinical Research

First Place

Zhen Ma, PhD

Xinjiang Medical University

Paper Title
Tumor Organoid-Guided Targeted Therapy for Locally Advanced Radioiodine-Refractory Thyroid Cancer: A Single-Center Retrospective Analysis of 38 Patients

Awarded $1,000 honorarium.

Presentation | Abstract

Second Place

Kainoa McCauley, MD, MS

The MetroHealth System/Case Western Reserve University

Paper Title
Preoperative Geriatric Risk Factor Screening: The Association Between Positive Screening and Postoperative Clinical and Functional Outcomes After Pancreatectomy For Cancer

Awarded $500 honorarium.

Presentation | Abstract

Third Place

Tara Talaie, MD, MS

Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

Paper Title
Navigating the Waters: The Use of Navigation to Overcome Barriers to Cancer Care, An American College of Surgeons (ACS) Commission on Cancer (CoC) and National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC) Quality Improvement Collaborative (QIC)

Awarded $500 honorarium.

Presentation | Abstract