Focus and Scope
Rooted in CRI’s unparalleled track record of identifying and supporting individuals who have reshaped the field, these awards are not tied to a single research project. Instead, they are designed to support outstanding investigators whose body of work demonstrates exceptional promise and the potential for transformative impact.
Named in honor of CRI’s founding scientific and medical director — widely recognized as the “Father of Modern Tumor Immunology” — the STAR Program carries forward Lloyd J. Old’s vision of empowering scientific pioneers.
STAR recipients are expected to become tomorrow’s leaders in cancer immunotherapy. By providing sustained, unrestricted support, the program enables investigators to follow new and unexpected paths, often leading to paradigm-shifting discoveries.