The American Lung Association Research Institute has announced an investment of $22 million in new research grants, clinical research, and strategic partnerships to support advancements in lung disease understanding, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. This funding aims to benefit the 35 million people in the United States living with chronic lung disease.
The initiative will provide support for 130 researchers nationwide, fund the Airways Clinical Research Centers (ACRC) Network, and foster key collaborations focused on improving outcomes for those affected by lung conditions. The commitment comes at a time when federal support for scientific research faces cuts and restructuring. Despite these challenges, the American Lung Association continues to be a major nonprofit source of funding for lung-related research across all career stages.
“Research is the foundation for every breakthrough that improves lung health and saves lives,” said Harold Wimmer, President and CEO of the American Lung Association. “Even in the face of ongoing public health challenges and funding shifts at the federal level, the American Lung Association remains deeply committed to investing in innovative science and the researchers who drive it. Through our Research Institute, we continue to fill a critical gap in public research funding and bring hope to millions of people living with or at risk for lung disease and lung cancer.”
For 2025–2026, grant programs cover multiple aspects of lung health such as allergic respiratory diseases, respiratory health equity research, emerging respiratory pathogens, interstitial lung disease innovation, indoor air quality issues, public policy impacts on public health, and discovery awards targeting lung cancer.
All projects receiving funds go through a peer-review process intended to ensure that only highly promising research receives backing. In addition to supporting individual scientists, funds also bolster the ACRC Network—the largest nonprofit network of clinical centers focusing on asthma and COPD treatment studies.
Applications are now open for the 2026–2027 cycle of awards and grants from the American Lung Association. More information about current opportunities can be found at https://www.lung.org/awards. Details about newly funded researchers are available at https://www.lung.org/research-team.
